The Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute has unveiled plans for Ghana to launch a rocket into space. Dr. Naomi Asabre Frimpong, a Research Scientist at the institute, announced this ambitious goal during the 2024 International Astronomical Union (IAU) General Assembly in Cape Town, South Africa.
Speaking to JoyNews’ Blessed Sogah, Dr. Frimpong stated, “Ghana does plan to go space.” However, she emphasized that this long-term ambition would require significant investment and partnerships with other IAU member states.
“We will need a lot of investment in space technology, space engineering communication, and research because our infrastructure right now does not support going to space as far as the international space station,” Dr. Frimpong explained.
The announcement comes as South Africa hosts the first IAU General Assembly on African soil in the Union’s 105-year history. The event has attracted over 2,000 experts from 82 countries, highlighting Cape Town’s emergence as a hub for scientific discourse.
Dr. Frimpong expressed confidence in Ghanaian capabilities, stating, “Ghanaians are really brilliant; we have a lot of potential and are able to achieve a lot with the limited infrastructure we have.”
South Africa has expressed willingness to partner with countries like Ghana to enhance their contributions to the global astronomy community. Thoko Modise, General Manager for Communications at Brand South Africa, welcomed the collaboration opportunity.
The assembly will feature presentations on various astronomical topics, including the James Webb Space Telescope’s impact, exoplanet discovery techniques, and initiatives to combat light pollution. Notable guests include Dr. Sian Proctor, the first African American woman to pilot a spacecraft, and Dr. Brian Schmidt, 2011 Nobel Prize winner in Physics.
As Ghana sets its sights on space, the country’s participation in this prestigious event underscores its commitment to advancing its space science capabilities and contributing to the international scientific community.
Source: myjoyonline.com
