The third day of the 2024 NewSpace Africa Conference built on the success of the previous days to continue high-level discussions highlighting the experiences and uptake of space innovation, technologies, and applications among different stakeholders.
Status Updates on African Space Agencies’ Activities – Cohort 4
The fourth head of the space agency panel featured Mr Fernand Bale, Director of CIGN; Mr Abdissa Yilma, Director General of the Ethiopian Space Science Institute; Dr Doreen Agaba, Technical Lead of the Department of Aeronautics and Space Science, STI, Uganda; and Ziyad Soreefan, Research Engineer of the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council.
Mr. Fernand Bale elaborated on the present endeavours of BNETD/CIGN in aiding the government with the execution of extensive development projects encompassing engineering, design, advisory services, and monitoring. He discussed the land use cover map by stating that the new EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) will apply on 30 December 2024 to wood, rubber, palm oil, soy, beef, coffee, and cacao. This regulation emphasises the need for transparency and accountability regarding sourcing these products to ensure they are not contributing to deforestation. As a result, it becomes crucial to have accurate information about the location of forests and the areas from which these regulated products are sourced. Compliance with the regulation is facilitated by providing a free mapping tool to individuals and organisations within these industries. It allows stakeholders to understand the land use dynamics better, make informed decisions about sourcing practices, and implement strategies to mitigate deforestation risks.
Mr Fernand Bale also highlighted that Cote D’ivoire is a United Nations General Assembly member who adopted the UN resolution on the Global Geodetic Reference Frame (GGRF) for Sustainable Development. He urged other African nations to prioritise investment in geodesy to bolster the African regional Frame (AFREF). Additionally, he highlighted the importance of the private sector’s involvement as a partner to ensure the sustainability of these investments.
Dr Doreen Agaba began the session by highlighting the various milestones of Uganda’s space activities. According to the Technical lead, the country has been involved in various space projects, including the African Development Satellite (AfDevSat), which aims to promote Space Education, enable Technology Transfer, utilise Earth Observation data, and promote Collaborative Research partnerships. Other highlighted projects included the Climatic Camera (for domesticating payload design) and the Aerospace Capacity Building Initiative (ongoing). Uganda is also committed to sharing its expertise and encouraging exchange programmes with other African countries. Uganda is also committed to creating a hub for startups from the formal and informal sectors and has partnered with several organisations, such as the Aerospace Bureau, to provide training, funds, and start-up incubation. She also highlighted some of the agency’s remote sensing capabilities to Support Subsistence farmers, Mapping Range Lands, National Planning, Early Warning Tools, and Sustainable Development. Dr Dorren concluded by raising some questions on how to effectively and efficiently interpret EO data to eradicate poverty on the continent and encourage stakeholders to facilitate impactful collaborations.
Ziyad Soreefan highlighted the roadmap of the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC), which is the country’s space agency. Mauritius’ journey began when it won the KiboCube competition 2018 and launched its first satellite, MIR-SAT 1, and Imagery and Radiotelecommunication Satellite in 2021. Mauritius signed an Agreement Framework with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), UAE, in 2023 and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to develop and deploy a Joint Small Satellite for capacity building initiative to build a micro-satellite.
The MRIC’s 20230 Vision Space Roadmap includes Policy and Laws: Drafting a National Space Policy and Establishing a national space law, in compliance with the International Space Law, for peaceful and sustainable use of the space environment as well as developing space projects in collaboration with International Partners by 2024/25. Update the existing infrastructure and set of labs for R&D and testing by 2026/28 and set up a space agency by creating an organisational framework responsible for the activities of the space sector by 2029/30.
Ziyad Soreefan highlighted that the MCRI ground station is being upgraded and supports three bands: 144 – 151 MHz, 432 – 440 MHz, and up to 11 GHz. He also stated they would be working on a new project under UNDP’s ocean innovation challenge to detect illegal fishing using satellite data. The project has reached 70% of its progress and aims to be completed by 2024. Regarding capacity building programmes, we are currently engaged in an ongoing initiative with MBIC and a local programmes focused on LEO Receiving Antennas. We also actively organise local and regional training sessions to ensure an engaged space ecosystem.
The Updates session was followed by a Question-and-Answer session moderated by Vangiliya Pereira, Deputy General Director for the Technical and Scientific Area, GGPEN.
Ziyad Soreefan discussed the strategies employed to attract investments into the Newspace sector in Mauritius. These strategies encompass capacity-building programmes to inspire the younger generation of scientists and engineers, foster regional and international partnerships, and cultivate positive relationships with ministries.
Dr Dorren emphasises the necessity for investments in scientific and technological initiatives and programmes to be rapid and smooth, facilitating the ongoing transfer of capacity-building and fostering innovation. Thus, Uganda is realigning its goals to be suitable for a quick implementation timeline and remove hurdles that discourage international investors. In addition, Dr. Dorren delved into strategies to maintain the interest of talented individuals by comprehending their challenges and offering support to foster their growth. Moreover, he emphasised the necessity for organisations operating in demanding space environments to have a structured plan and to provide training for individuals to become familiar with projects, thereby creating a conducive environment for innovation.
Ms Amal Layachi also believes Stakeholders should engage in outreach activities among partners to bolster innovation, foster startups, and promote collaboration between academia and industry. Furthermore, Ms. Amal emphasised the significance of spearheading space-based programmes for Morocco. She underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among partners to acquire essential infrastructural data and facilitate the exchange of expertise. Regarding capacity building, it’s crucial to prioritise national-level training and organise training courses to support projects, thereby ensuring a significant pool of experts.
On the other hand, Mr Bale emphasised the need for policy adjustments to bolster robust markets and comprehend needs that can inform investment policies to combat poverty. Additionally, there is a call for modernising geospatial centres to enhance data generation capabilities. Local actors require access to technology to furnish precise localised data for commodities. During discussions about the challenges faced by the government in launching a free land map to combat deforestation and promote its agricultural sector, Mr Bale emphasised the complexities of collaborating with agricultural stakeholders. He also highlighted the importance of simplifying the open-source data for easy implementation. However, the overarching goal is to ensure that the private sector translates the data into easily understandable formats. When discussing capacity-building for industry growth, Mr. Bale emphasised the importance of engaging with academic networks and establishing programmes to attract young talent.
Status Updates on African Space Agencies’ Activities – Cohort 5
The fourth head of the space agency panel featured Faustin A.S. Banda, Director, National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Zambia; Joseph Armathe Amougou, Director-General, National Observatory on Climate Change (ONACC), Cameroun; Dr Joseph Tandoh, Director, Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute; Mr Hassan Aboubakar, Secretary General, Djibouti Ministry of Higher Education and Research.Faustin A.S. Banda began his session by highlighting the country’s roadmap for the next five years and sharing the Mandate of the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), some of which includes remote sensing or geographic information system services to address scientific, natural resource management, and environmental concerns in Zambia and the sub-region; Promote the development and use of remote sensing or geographic information system technology and applications in Zambia; Collaborate with institutions involved in remote sensing or geographic information system activities nationally, regionally and internationally; among others. The NRSC’s foundation rests upon four pillars: Data Infrastructure Development, Finance and Human Capital, Products and Services, and Research and Development. Additionally, the director emphasised several strategic goals, including Developing and operationalising a satellite imagery data acquisition facility; Supporting and providing technical advisory for the development of the Space Science programmes; Enhancing adoption and utilisation of remote sensing and GIS technologies in planning and decision-making; and Fostering strategic institutional and human resources development.
Furthermore, he highlighted that the agency’s activities predominantly focus on the Earth observation segment and have utilised its geospatial data to monitor deforestation over the years, provide land use/cover advisory for the Commissioner of Lands, engage in Natural Capital Accounting (Land and Forest), including water management, soil suitability mapping, and Integrated Drought Risk mapping. The agency also conducts GIS and Remote Sensing Training for various entities such as the Forestry Department (FD), Local Authorities, and the Ministry of Energy (MoE). Financially, 70% of funding comes from grants, 20% internally generated, and 10% from partners. Mr. Faustin A.S. Banda expressed the agency’s enthusiasm regarding completing its ground station, which was constructed with assistance from China. Situated on a 6-hectare plot of land 50 kilometres from Lusaka, the ground station features a 7.3-meter antenna diameter, operates in S-Band and X-Band frequencies, and employs a staff of 25 individuals.
In conclusion, NRSC’s strategic direction encompasses several critical initiatives: operationalising the Ground Receiving Station, enacting a Space Act to transition NRSC into a Space Agency, increasing investment in capacity building and research and development (R&D), fostering regional and international partnerships with relevant institutions, and ultimately evolving into an autonomous centre of excellence. The Director concluded by emphasising challenges faced by the agency, including funding constraints and the need for capacity building.
Dr Joseph Tandoh elaborated on operationalising Ghana’s space activities over various timelines. While his goal is for Ghana to establish a space agency by 2024, he outlined the development in three phases. The first phase, which involves policy development, has been completed, and the second phase, focusing on creating the space council, will commence this year. The third phase involves establishing a legal framework, with the agency currently engaging with the necessary stakeholders to draft the space policy framework. He also highlighted various space science applications. These include VLBI reference point measurements for observing methanol masers as part of the UCSC observation and data calibration project. However, Dr. Tandoh noted that system integration is still in progress, with various components undergoing testing. He expects the inauguration of the science phase to be completed by the third quarter of the year.
Furthermore, ongoing projects encompass the development of a crop intelligence system, currently in the pilot phase, focusing on maise and other cash crops to bolster crop security. The institute is also monitoring erosion and accretion along the shoreline of the Keta Lagoon and combating deforestation and illegal mining. Additionally, the institute participates in programmes such as the African Development Satellite Project (AfDevSat), SPACE AWARENESS AND TRAINING, and various infrastructural developments. Dr. Tandoh emphasised the institute’s participation in numerous partnerships and the training of five engineers in China on AI systems in satellites. He concluded his presentation with a call for collaboration and investment to propel the growth of the space economy further.
As with other Heads of Space Agencies, Mr Hassan Aboubakar highlighted the agency’s progress, including the challenges. Some of the highlighted objectives the agency aims to achieve include Developing partnerships with reliable scientific and technical players in the spatial sector, training five engineers in the development of space systems, training five technicians in AIT (Assembly, Integration, Tests), designing and producing 1U type cubesats, designing and equipping a ground control centre, and equipping each meteorological measurement station with a transmitter for nano-satellites. The construction of the Djibouti spaceport, estimated at nearly a billion US dollars, will see the first of seven launch pads completed by the end of 2024. The seventh launch pad is projected to be ready by the end of 2027. Additionally, between 2024 and 2027, the agency plans to launch 3U cubesats to transmit scientific data and imaging (visible/multispectral) and 12U cubesats. An interactive session followed the presentation.
Dr Joseph Tandoh addressed the strategy of engaging the private sector to foster growth within the space ecosystem. He emphasised the importance of developing efficient policies that support and encourage private sector involvement. Additionally, Dr. Tandoh highlighted the significance of forging partnerships with academia to facilitate the transfer of skilled expertise to the industry. Furthermore, he advocated for tax exemptions and incentives to incentivise private sector participation. Lastly, Dr Tandoh stressed the importance of investing in capacity building in space and science to ensure continuous growth and development within the sector.
Faustin A.S. Banda reiterated perspectives similar to Dr. Joseph’s by emphasising the significance of tax incentives and training programmes. Moreover, he emphasised the necessity for creating a conducive environment where investors have fair access to space resources. Mr. Hassan Aboubakar emphasised ensuring that space activities, typically funded by public funds, demonstrate tangible value for the investments made. He underscored the need for transparency and accountability in showcasing the benefits derived from these investments to stakeholders and the general public. Additionally, Mr Aboubakar emphasised the significance of fostering collaboration with state institutes to leverage resources, expertise, and infrastructure towards achieving common goals in the space sector. This collaborative approach ensures efficient resource utilisation and maximises public investments’ impact in advancing space exploration and innovation.
Highlighting funding concerns, Faustin A.S. Banda expressed hope that the agency and the government can address Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) issues. However, the most significant challenge remains access to a consistent flow of funding. Despite this obstacle, the Zambian agency has received interest from potential partners. Moreover, the government is taking steps to facilitate the entry of private organisations through PPP arrangements. For Mr. Hassan Aboubakar, Djibouti seeks foreign funds to modernise its infrastructure and expand its activities. Dr. Joseph Tandoh pointed out that the Ghanaian agency relies on public funds. However, challenges also arise due to the government’s political will to allocate funds to the agency. Therefore, collaboration is seen as the pathway to ensure adequate funding.
Panel 1 – Optimising Space Investment in Africa
Joseph Ibeh, Chief Growth Officer, Space in Africa, moderated this panel, which explored how investors worldwide are fostering the development of novel space capabilities, from launch facilities and satellite services to human activities in orbit. As emerging space companies progress and government space budgets expand, institutional investors increasingly focus on space opportunities.
Jean-François discussed why the present is the opportune time to invest in Africa’s space ecosystem. He highlighted France’s active role in developing space capabilities for Africans, which is expected to continue growing. This initiative aims to facilitate technological transfer to Africa, enabling the continent to compete globally. On the same subject, Bryan Dean emphasised how local companies are now competing globally. He also noted that capital investment in Africa is particularly attractive compared to other regions of the world.
Similarly, Ana-Mia Louw stated that the African space landscape and opportunities are growing. James emphasised Africa’s significant contributions to missions worldwide, highlighting that African components constitute 25% of satellites in outer space. He emphasised that Africa should be aware of its capabilities and potential. Furthermore, James pointed out that Africa presents substantial growth and opportunities, similar to China and India, but without the political complexities associated with the United States.
Furthermore, drawing from the lessons learned in securing one of the largest investments for an African startup, Ana-Mia Louw underscored the time-consuming process of raising capital. She emphasised the importance for startups to continually reassess their models, comprehend the value proposition that the market is receptive to, demonstrate consistency, offer proven solutions, and possess a profound understanding of market dynamics. Additionally, she explored the accessibility of funding from African investors, highlighting their familiarity with the risk models inherent in conducting business on the continent.
According to Bryan, one key competitive advantage startups should possess is balancing cost, speed, and efficiency rather than solely focusing on building complex systems. Startups can leverage local products and in-house production to foster creativity. However, a familiar competitive advantage among African startups is their ability to achieve more with less, given the unique environmental circumstances. Therefore, these startups must learn to adapt and effectively communicate their value proposition, even if centring on a single product. According to Jean-François, the global landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, and the space ecosystem is evolving accordingly. He suggests that the newspace movement is not just about comparing old practices with new ones but instead adapting to the changing dynamics of the industry. Africa is well-positioned to navigate this shift without repeating the mistakes of other space-faring nations. Therefore, startups should capitalise on partnerships, financial institutions, and sustainable infrastructure development to thrive in this evolving landscape long-term.
Bryan advises startups to carefully select their investors to ensure their long-term sustainability beyond the initial investment phase. Startups must understand the values of potential investors and ensure alignment to avoid conflicts down the line. James advises startups to avoid relying too heavily on government funding sources. Their business models should not solely depend on services that only governments procure. Instead, startups should focus on exporting and generating revenue quickly.
Speaking on strategies to achieve NewSpace objectives in Africa, Ana-Mia Louw advises stakeholders to use cutting-edge technology and make it scalable, accessible, and possible to manufacture quickly so customers can access it cost-effectively. For Jean-François, expanding the programmes will guarantee that the development of space applications continues to grow year after year.Bryan wrapped up the session by discussing the various investment categories in space within Africa and how the continent can emerge as a powerhouse. He emphasised that the downstream segment, particularly in EO (Earth Observation) and telecommunications, has attracted the most investments, highlighting the need for Africa to capitalise on these opportunities. Africans must develop localised solutions for their problems, scale them, and sell them to other regions.
Panel 2 – Space-Based Solutions for Climate Disasters Management: Climate Monitoring, Modelling and Adaption
This panel, moderated by Marie Makuate, Founder of Geospatial Girls and Kids, will explore how satellite data aids in tracking climate patterns, predicting natural disasters, and facilitating adaptation strategies. Discussions will highlight the significance of remote sensing technologies, Earth observation systems, and data analytics in bolstering climate resilience.
The president, Professor Affian Kouadio, elaborated on utilising satellite data and remote sensing technologies to monitor various parameters, including ocean temperature and biodiversity. He also highlighted the crucial role played by GOOS-Africa in ensuring the generation of such data for a healthy environment. He emphasised the importance of activating high-quality time series data, which is instrumental in building a high-quality prediction model.
Ouafae Karim discussed using satellite imagery to address climate change in Africa. Satellite imagery, which forms a part of Earth Observation (EO) data, serves various purposes such as emergency response, soil analysis, and meeting diverse user needs. Furthermore, with the advancements in AI, enhancing the resolution of satellite imagery facilitates earlier detection of climate and weather changes in a region. Moreover, establishing robust digital infrastructures is essential to ensure seamless data generation by providing the necessary tools. This data can be leveraged in real-time for emergencies and agricultural purposes. Additionally, streamlined geospatial services for partners become more feasible with these advancements.
Dr Rakiya Babamaaji discussed ongoing disasters like flooding and how NASRDA employs remote sensing techniques to mitigate flooding and establish an early warning system in Nigeria. Nigeria has been actively utilising space technology through collaborations with local, international, and private-public partners, enhancing institutional engagement with stakeholders, and focusing on capacity-building efforts. The satellite launched by Nigeria in 2003 is part of a disaster constellation aimed at ensuring broad coverage of disasters in partner countries as well. In addition, Nigeria is part of UN-SPIDER,, which gives Nigeria the resources to monitor flooding in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency, and the country has worked with Algeria, Ghana, and South Africa to create policies to support lives.
Panel 3 – Space Applications for Natural Resource Management
This panel, moderated by Vivianne Meta, Managing Director of LocateIT, explored leveraging satellite data and technology to track environmental changes, optimise resource allocation, and implement sustainable land, water, and biodiversity conservation practices. Furthermore, it will discuss lobbying to use satellite-driven data to influence decision-making, data accessibility and the need for governments to improve conservation efforts.
Prof Mbow Cheikh emphasised capacity-building programmes aimed at adopting tools to reduce data processing time and improve data storage efficiency for Earth Observation (EO) data. This facilitates the quicker formulation of policies for community development. The array of applications derived from satellite data is unparalleled, and it is essential for analytical purposes to foster regional integration and deliver products to the end users. Professor Cheikh also addressed how the CSE has facilitated regional cooperation and data integration, enabling stakeholders to access and utilise the products effectively.
One approach involves bridging the data gap and fostering partnerships between private and public entities to prevent data dumping. However, another challenge involves adequately interpreting satellite data for thematic utilisation. The third challenge is integrating human involvement into the data picture. Therefore, CSE endeavours to bridge these disparities in the environmental sector to ensure productivity and efficiency.
Professor Labbassi Kamal addressed African countries’ challenges in utilising satellite data for natural resource management. He highlighted disparities in infrastructure and stressed the importance of investing in human capacity programmes, emphasising the need for capital. Additionally, stakeholders must establish regulatory frameworks for data sharing and ensure an environment conducive to data operators. Moreover, organisations like the African Association of Remote Sensing of the Environment (AARSE) actively engage in programmes like GMES and Africa to share expertise and bolster research environments to address the continent’s natural resource management issues. Kamal emphasised stakeholders’ need to invest in research and development while strengthening their networks.
Dr Camille Wardrop Alleyne addressed the hurdles linked to leveraging space-based technologies and suggested strategies for Africans to employ these technologies to overcome such challenges. The initial step involves identifying whether the problem is genuinely space-based and ascertaining if it can be resolved using space-based technologies, alongside addressing the lack of awareness regarding the true potential of such technologies. Hence, the primary objective is to close this disparity. The subsequent challenge lies in obtaining access to data swiftly, wherein artificial intelligence (AI) will play a pivotal role.
Dr. Éliane Ubalijoro discussed World Agroforestry’s efforts to monitor forest ecosystems worldwide. She mentioned their involvement in the African Land Restoration Initiative, mainly focusing on the Regreening Africa programme. World Agroforestry is currently in the second phase of this initiative, collaborating with over 600,000 farmers across the continent. Ubalijoro emphasised the importance of stakeholders visualising data to enable policymakers to maximise the impacts at the local level.
Professor Onwona-Agyeman Boateng discussed how the university integrates space-based technologies into the curriculum to ensure its relevance and currency. The university introduces seven fundamental concepts of emerging technologies across various departments to equip students with the necessary understanding. This approach provides students access to job opportunities aligned with these technological advancements. Professor Boateng also emphasised collaborative efforts to ensure seamless data utilisation for efficient disaster response.Following the panel discussion, Professor Jean Pitot, Co-founder & Chief Engineer of the Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI), delivered a keynote presentation on “Building a Sovereign African Space Launch Capability.” Jean introduced ASRI’s capabilities, missions, and funding partners. He announced that in the coming weeks, they would share details on their recent funding grant, which is their largest yet. Jean emphasised ASRI’s programmes, including the SAFFIRE, Phoenix Programme, In-Space Propulsion Programme, and Turbomachinery Research Programme. He underscored the significant gap and the absence of independent launch capability opportunities in Africa.
Professor Jean also underscored the various ways in which Africa stands to benefit from space launch capabilities, including elevating Africa’s global status, providing independent access to the next economic and military frontiers, completing the African space supply chain, stimulating growth in high-value tech sectors, enabling exploration of the cosmos on its terms, inspiring children to pursue STEM careers, and offering all people a profound source of hope and pride. As a way forward, Professor Jean introduced the CLV Small Launch Vehicle, a two-stage vehicle, as a first step towards establishing Africa’s first space gateway. Construction is currently underway, with completion anticipated by September 2024. In addition, Professor Jean announced the Official Launch of ASRI on the 29th of April. He also shared subsequent milestones of the SAFFIRE Programme.
Panel 4 – Emerging Technologies in the African NewSpace Ecosystem
This panel, moderated by Rania Toukebri, Regional Coordinator, Africa Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC), explored innovations such as small satellites, constellations, and advanced remote sensing techniques. Discussions will revolve around fostering indigenous capabilities, enabling cost-effective access to space, and leveraging satellite applications for socio-economic growth.
James Barrington-Brown discussed how Newspace Systems leverages emerging technologies to drive global innovation. He noted that most organisations develop their systems locally, making persuading clients to take risks with their satellite manufacturing systems challenging. However, he highlighted that the cost of systems has decreased due to the widespread use of commercial components. Despite these challenges, Newspace is capitalising on this trend to facilitate its integration into space. Thus, for him, the real progress of technology is in software.
Regarding significant advancements in satellite components, James highlighted the impact on the region, particularly with smaller satellites that offer multiple uses. He mentioned the possibility of combining subsystems, such as transparent antennas mounted on solar panels, maximising space utilisation for dual purposes. Furthermore, he mentioned NewSpace Systems’ technology aimed at replacing reaction wheels, providing thermal control, and enabling propulsion systems for orbit. In addition, regarding actual technologies, there is a trend to increase the data rate, and typically, satellites have single antennas. However, massive constellations like Starlink, OneWeb, and Telesat are beginning to appear above the central satellite plane. This allows stakeholders to communicate 24-7 with your satellite but at a lower bandwidth. This will be available in a year or two, and stakeholders can start strategising. There are lots of maritime domain-type applications that could be enabled by having such technologies.
Robert van Zyl discussed the advancement of hardware component infrastructure in space and clarified that they are not currently utilising AI in their operations; it is only employed on the production side. The trend of cost reduction drives this decision, as clients anticipate more productivity for constellations. AI is thus used in terms of augmented reality. Emerging technologies programmes allow participants to upskill their expertise. In addition, relationships and partnerships must be mutual to benefit both parties and harness technological advancement. In emerging technologies, maritime domain awareness as an application is expected to undergo significant development. Few people know South Africa is at the forefront of a new technology service called VDES, or VHF Data Exchange System, which is essentially AIS version 2. Companies like SVC are leading the discussions on VDES with organisations like SOPs. This homegrown technology is supported by satellites of a specific size. Countries can actively participate and contribute to this ecosystem, creating ground services directly linked to it. These emerging opportunities provide avenues for everyone to get involved.
Ana-Mia Louw discussed the relevance of data integration to ensure seamless analysis. On cost-effective solutions, Ana highlighted that in the new space industry, cost-effectiveness revolves around the concept of time equals money. This trend is particularly prominent among customers in the new space industry. The objective is to reduce delivery times and assist customers in lowering their design time. While it may seem counterintuitive, providing customers with comprehensive information on how to use and implement your product into their satellite and equipping them with the necessary tools for successful satellite operations at the initial stages can significantly contribute to this goal.Stephen Korir discussed the use of AI for machine learning and satellite data analysis, highlighting that Amini heavily relies on downstream processes that are fully dependent on AI and machine learning. He also emphasised that AI and machine learning can be utilised to scale up data to address challenges. Additionally, he pointed out the challenges associated with using AI, including the accessibility of ground truth data. Regarding user experiences, Amini strives to tailor users’ needs according to the problems they are trying to solve. Stephen mentioned the existence of platforms that collect data on the sustainability of Amini products from various sources. When ingesting this data, they have established SOPs and workflows. Additionally, they have analytics designed to process the data in a specific manner. Data engineers create pipelines to ingest this data and develop methods for users to access the platform’s data.
Source: https://africanews.space/excerpts-from-the-2024-newspace-africa-conference-day-three/
