#MeerKAT: The mother of all telescopes
The 64-antenna telescope has officially been launched.
Scientists from across the globe descended on Sutherland in the Northern Cape for the unveiling of the MeerKAT radio telescope.
Various governmental officials including Deputy President David Mabuza, Science and Techonology Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane and Higher Education Minister Naledi Pandor attended the ceremony on Friday.
The telescope will not only paint a clearer picture of the workings of space but also increase the development rate of other technologies.
The Square Kilometre Array’s (SKA) Dr Happy Sithole says the MeerKAT will help the fight against climate change, help mines with mineral processing and development in healthcare.
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“Some of the new industries as well; 3-D animation industry is growing in South Africa. We have the computing capacity as well. This is not just going to be used for astronomy we can extent that to some of our economic activities.”
Deputy President David Mabuza described it as a milestone for Africa “in our quest to catch up with the rest of the world and make our own contribution to civilization as a country.”
He says at least R110 million were ploughed into local businesses during construction of the telescope.
Undergraduate bursaries were announced with the SKA also assisting schools in the area with programs including school management, numeracy and literacy.
Twenty-five people have also been enrolled in a work-based experiential learning.