Senegal has successfully launched its first satellite, Gaindesat-1A. It took off on SpaceX’s Falcon 9, part of the Transporter 11 mission. The launch happened on Friday, August 16, 2024, from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA.
The satellite was developed through a partnership between Senegal and the University Space Centre of Montpellier (CSUM). Gaindesat-1A is an earth observation nanosatellite.
It will collect and transmit important environmental data to various stations across Senegal. This data will aid in monitoring the environment and testing new applications.
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President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye praised the launch, calling it a new era for Senegal. He noted, “Senegal is entering a new era today with the successful launch of our first satellite, GAINDESAT-1A, at 6:56 p.m. from the Vandenberg base.
This achievement results from five years of hard work by our engineers and technicians. It is a major step toward our technological sovereignty. I am proud and grateful to everyone who made this project possible.”
The Gaindesat-1A will provide essential data to manage water resources more effectively. It will also improve weather forecasts and aviation safety. Additionally, it will help monitor and manage Senegal’s lakes and watercourses.
Originally, the nanosatellite was scheduled for launch in July 2024. Senegal first announced this ambitious project in 2019. The goal was to build and launch a satellite within two years.
This project aims to use space technology for socio-economic growth and scientific progress. It also seeks to foster a local space ecosystem that supports research and innovation. The successful launch of Gaindesat-1A highlights Senegal’s commitment to achieving these goals.