Categories: Technology

Kenya installs Transient Array Radio Telescope, boosting role in African space research

The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) has successfully installed the Transient Array Radio Telescope (TART), marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward becoming a leader in radio astronomy. The announcement was made during a week-long workshop organized by KSA in collaboration with the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) and the Electronic Research Foundation of New Zealand.

The TART network, a collection of cost-effective radio telescopes, enables real-time study of astronomical phenomena. This advancement not only enhances Kenya’s space research capabilities but also strengthens Africa’s presence in global space science. The TART network will eventually be deployed in seven other African nations. With this installation, Kenya becomes the third African country, following South Africa and Mauritius, to host radio telescope technology, positioning itself as a key player in space exploration across the continent.

The workshop, hosted at the Technical University of Kenya (TUK), brought together students, astronomers, and researchers to gain practical experience with the TART telescope. This hands-on training helped build local expertise in radio astronomy. Participants also benefited from the knowledge of South African experts, which will enhance Kenya’s technical capabilities and pave the way for future scientific breakthroughs. The event underscored the growing partnership between Kenya, South Africa, and New Zealand in advancing space research.

Brig. Hillary Kipkosgey, CEO of the Kenya Space Agency, highlighted the importance of such initiatives in positioning Kenya as a hub for space science in Africa. “By introducing radio astronomy to researchers, this workshop has laid the groundwork for developing the necessary infrastructure, academic programs, and research projects that will shape the future of Kenya’s space sector,” said Kipkosgey.

Looking ahead, the Kenya Space Agency plans to further expand its space research infrastructure by establishing an Astronomical Observatory in Kitui later this year, underscoring the country’s commitment to advancing its space science capabilities.

John Kipngetich

Recent Posts

Campost and FindMe team up to modernize mail delivery in Cameroon

Cameroon Postal Services (Campost) has partnered with FindMe, an address management start-up, to modernize mail…

4 hours ago

Nigeria’s tech sector focuses on expanding connectivity to rural regions

In a bid to bridge Nigeria's digital divide, industry leaders gathered in Lagos for the…

5 hours ago

Visa invests in four African fintech startups to boost financial innovation

Visa has made strategic investments in four African fintech startups—Oze, Workpay, OkHi, and ORDA—that recently…

6 hours ago

Huawei to host hackathon to boost digital innovation in Kenya

Chinese tech giant Huawei has announced plans to host a hackathon in early December, aiming…

6 hours ago

KCB customers withdraw $7.7 million due to system glitch during migration

A system malfunction during a key data migration allowed customers at KCB Group, Kenya’s largest…

2 days ago

Mozambique social media restricted as runner-up in hiding

Mozambique's social media platforms have been restricted as Venâncio Mondlane, a main opposition figure in…

2 days ago