Kenya recently installed the Transient Array Radio Telescope (TART) in Nairobi, enhancing its radio astronomy capabilities. The installation followed a week-long training workshop at the Technical University of Kenya hosted by the Kenya Space Agency (KSA) in collaboration with the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) and the Electronic Research Foundation of New Zealand. Researchers and astronomers from various public universities in the country were in attendance.
South African researchers in radio astronomy provided technical knowledge and expertise to the attendees. This training provided the attendees with knowledge of the working principles of the TART, proving to be an essential resource in building Kenya’s indigenous capacity in radio astronomy. Additionally, this provided room for collaboration between Kenya, South Africa and New Zealand, further strengthening partnerships for advancing radio astronomy and space research globally.
The installation of the TART emphasises Kenya’s commitment to growing its astronomy and space science infrastructure and further developing its indigenous space capabilities. Additionally, the radio telescope will build local capacity in research, data analysis, and radio observations that will impact science and innovation in the country. Furthermore, Brigadier Hillary Kipkosgey, the CEO of the Kenya Space Agency, highlighted that these initiatives are crucial for establishing Kenya as a leading hub for space science and astronomy in Africa.
Transient Array Radio Telescope
The TART is a 24-element synthesis array radio telescope that continuously monitors the sky. The system detects transient events such as satellites, near-Earth objects, and high-energy cosmic rays. Additionally, the telescope serves as a platform for developing new imaging algorithms. Innovators in New Zealand developed this cutting-edge telescope design, and it was introduced to Rhodes University in South Africa in 2022.
SARAO, in partnership with DARA, is funding the deployment of the TARTs to all 8 Square Kilometre Array (SKA) partner countries. The team recently installed the TART in the Université des Mascareignes, Mauritius, in June 2024.
Future Plan for Kenya’s Astronomy Landscape
After successfully installing the TART in Kenya, the country seeks to further invest in its astronomy and space science infrastructure and human capacity. This will be followed by establishing an Astronomical Observatory later this year in Kitui, a town 185 kilometres east of Nairobi. This will further enhance the country’s efforts in astronomy research and capabilities.
Source: https://spaceinafrica.com/2024/09/04/kenya-becomes-the-third-african-country-to-install-the-tart/
