South African National Space Agency to provide weather info to all aircraft in Africa
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) has been selected by the International Civil Aviation Organisation to provide space weather information for every aircraft flying in the continent's airspace.
Minister of Science and Technology, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane has described it as a victory for South African science.
"We are excited this morning to announce the appointment of our space weather centre as the regional global centre for weather that will be used by the aviation agency internationally for providing weather services for all the flights that will be coming on to the continent and leaving the continent," Kubayi-Ngubane said.
She believes the award is a sign of confidence in the department.
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"Especially in the space sector. But we are more happy that South Africa continues to lead in areas that previously areas where developing countries could be leading so we looking forward for many of countries on the continent to benefit as well.”
Kubayi-Ngubane said the country's international reputation has also been enhanced, with the country now seen as a leading player in the space science sector.
"South Africa's designation as a regional space weather information provider will grow the science, engineering, technology and innovation sector, offering opportunities to develop scarce skills and increase national research output, while ensuring that usable products are generated from the knowledge."
Kubayi-Ngubane said SANSA underwent an extensive assessment to earn the distinction of becoming one of two designated regional space weather centres – the other being a joint Russia-China centre.
"Well done team for this milestone and say to South Africans, those who are young look in the space sector for careers so that we can continue to make the mark."
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