South Africa has a rich history in space related activities and has displayed active participation in global space endeavours for societal benefit.

Space science and technology are a strategic focus for the country, guided by the national space policy and strategy. It defines the national space programme, focusing on integrated space- based services, products and applications.

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) provides value-added products and services in both space and non-space applications that contribute to decision making and enhanced quality of life at all levels of society. SANSA is currently developing the country’s next Earth observation satellite which provides an opportunity to showcase the impact of investment in space science and technology for the benefit of our citizens and the continent.

The programmatic focus areas providing opportunities for partnerships and collaborations include:

  • Collection, processing and distribution of Earth observation data to support policy-making, decision-making, planning, disaster management, resource and environmental management, economic growth and sustainable development initiatives.
  • Provision of state-of-the-art ground station facilities and services, including satellite tracking, telemetry and command as well as launch support, in-orbit testing, mission control and satellite-based navigation for Space Operations.
  • Creation and utilisation of knowledge, developing human capital and advancing Space science by studying everything above the surface of the Earth.
  • Leading the technical development of space and subsystems to support the South African Space Engineering Programme in order to meet the strategic objectives of the country.
  • Increasing the uptake and appreciation of science among our youth through improving the scientific literacy and engagement of the general public and developing human capital with transferable skills to transform the economy from resource- based to a knowledge economy.

SANSA aspires to strengthen South Africa’s role in multinational space science research and technological endeavours through partnerships and investment.