South Africa launches three nanosatellites to observe maritime space
The three South African satellites were launched by Elon Musk's SpaceX Falcon9 rocket.
(illustrative image) Bill INGALLS NASA/AFP
Text by: RFI Follow
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These satellites were entirely designed in South Africa, by engineers from the Franco-South African Institute of Technology based in Cape Town.
They were then launched from Cape Canaveral in the United States via a SpaceX rocket.
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With our correspondent in Johannesburg
,
Romain Chanson
The company of Elon Musk, himself from South Africa
, broadcast live
the putting into orbit of this constellation of small satellites intended to monitor the South African maritime space. With this investment of approximately 1.5 million euros over three years, South Africa hopes for many economic benefits.
Until now, South Africa paid foreign companies to monitor its coasts from space. Now it can count on its three nanosatellites: boxes 20 centimeters high and 10 centimeters wide.
The information collected by what is called a "constellation of satellites" will be made available to countries in the region that have a seafront: this is a new financial windfall for South Africa.
They will be able to analyze their fish stocks, monitor maritime traffic and track ships that leak oil.
With this launch, South Africa dreams of an aerospace industry.
She wants to show that she has the capacity to build satellites and then export them.
Next step: design bigger jigs and learn how to send them all up there.
For the moment, SpaceX has been chosen for this launch.
A pride for Dr Blade Nzimande, South African Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation.
Referring to Elon Musk, a South African by birth, he said he was happy to be in contact with the diaspora in the United States.
Liftoff!
pic.twitter.com/CwfVc9Zyjg
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) January 13, 2022
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