Eos Capital, managing the Namibia Infrastructure Development and Investment Fund (NIDIF), has approved the Namibia Spaceport project. This project is spearheaded by Q-KON Namibia, and marks a significant milestone for the nation.
The Namibia Spaceport will serve as a hub for satellite communication networks. It will also provide ground infrastructure and advanced services.
The Spaceport will offer several key services
- Ground Gateway Terminal Hosting. This service includes providing the necessary infrastructure for hosting Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellation Ground Gateway Terminals. It covers land for antenna farms, civil works, fibre connectivity, power supply, facilities monitoring, equipment hosting, infrastructure services, and on-demand first-line support.
2. Earth Observation Downlink Services. The project will enable the downloading of vital data and images from satellites, boosting earth observation capabilities and scientific research. Additionally, it will make high-resolution satellite images available to schools and universities. Students can use these images to study land use changes, monitor deforestation, and examine climate change impacts on ecosystems.
3. Tracking, Telemetry, and Control (TT&C). The Spaceport will also be a crucial part of the African TT&C network. These stations will monitor and control satellites orbiting the continent.
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While giving his remarks, Dr. Dawie de Wet, CEO of Q-KON, stated that they will announce the next steps soon.
Namibia’s Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Honourable Emma Theofelus, highlighted the project’s significance.
“The Namibia Spaceport represents a monumental stride towards harnessing the vast potential of space technology for the growth of Namibia and Africa’s communication capabilities.”
“The project shows Namibia’s commitment to space exploration, innovation, and sustainable development.
“With a strategic focus on collaboration, capacity building, and technological advancement, the Namibia Spaceport will make our country a worthy player in the African space arena,” she said.
Frederico Van Wyk, Chief Investment Officer of Eos Capital, emphasised their commitment to digital inclusion. The Spaceport will foster economic growth and innovation in Namibia.
“This landmark initiative aligns with Eos Capital’s mission to facilitate strategic investments that propel Namibia into the future and earn positive returns to investors,” he stated.
Dr. Dawie de Wet expressed enthusiasm for the project. He believes it will elevate Namibia’s technological prowess and support LEO industry growth in sub-Saharan Africa.