Ethiopia announced plans to launch its third Earth observation satellite (EOS) in 2026 with China’s support, a senior official of the Ethiopian Space Science and Geospatial Institute (ESSGI) said on Tuesday.
This project is spearheaded by the Ethiopian Space Science and Geospatial Institute (ESSGI), in partnership with China. The new satellite is expected to provide higher resolution images and enhanced monitoring capabilities compared to its predecessors.
Tesfaye Fufa, the Executive Director of Satellite Monitoring at ESSGI, said preparations for the launch are already underway. However, he did not disclose the financial details of the collaboration between Ethiopia and China.
Ethiopia’s space program is relatively young, but it has made notable advancements in a short time, he said
First Satellite (ETRSS-1, 2019): Launched in December 2019 with assistance from China, the Ethiopian Remote Sensing Satellite-1 (ETRSS-1). It was designed for agricultural monitoring, environmental management, and climate observation.
Second Satellite was launched in December 2020 and had enhanced capabilities for remote sensing and scientific research. The upcoming satellite will feature improved imaging technology, allowing for more precise data collection and disaster prediction.
With the launch of the third Earth observation satellite, Ethiopia aims to strengthen its capabilities in natural disaster prediction (floods, droughts, and deforestation), climate change monitoring, urban planning and infrastructure development, agricultural resource management and water resource tracking.
Ethiopia is among the few African nations actively developing space programs, but other countries are ahead in terms of the number and types of satellites launched.
MG/as/APA