News / National
Zimbabwe to launch second satellite in November
16 Jun 2024 at 03:59hrs | Views
Zimbabwe is set to launch its second satellite, ZimSat-2, in November to advance its data and space technology capabilities. Initially scheduled for May 26, the launch was delayed due to technical issues.
ZimSat-2 will feature advanced sensors and imaging devices, supporting applications such as mineral exploration, environmental hazard monitoring, and management of droughts and human settlements.
Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, confirmed the country's readiness for the launch, noting that the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA) is finalizing technical preparations.
ZINGSA coordinator Mr. Painos Gweme explained that the delay was due to the primary payload not being ready, pushing the launch window to November after missing the June-August window.
Pre-launch tests for ZimSat-2 are complete, and the satellite is now awaiting the appropriate launch window in November. Zimbabwe aims to introduce three additional earth observation satellites in the coming years, building on the capabilities of its first satellite, ZimSat-1, launched in November 2022.
ZimSat-1 currently aids in monitoring drought conditions, mine mapping, and other data-driven activities from the Mazowe Ground Station. The government views these space initiatives as pivotal for the country's modernization and industrialization efforts.
ZimSat-2 will feature advanced sensors and imaging devices, supporting applications such as mineral exploration, environmental hazard monitoring, and management of droughts and human settlements.
Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, confirmed the country's readiness for the launch, noting that the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA) is finalizing technical preparations.
ZINGSA coordinator Mr. Painos Gweme explained that the delay was due to the primary payload not being ready, pushing the launch window to November after missing the June-August window.
Pre-launch tests for ZimSat-2 are complete, and the satellite is now awaiting the appropriate launch window in November. Zimbabwe aims to introduce three additional earth observation satellites in the coming years, building on the capabilities of its first satellite, ZimSat-1, launched in November 2022.
ZimSat-1 currently aids in monitoring drought conditions, mine mapping, and other data-driven activities from the Mazowe Ground Station. The government views these space initiatives as pivotal for the country's modernization and industrialization efforts.
Source - The Sunday Mail
