In December 2024, Ethiopia marked another significant milestone in its space programme, declaring a new 12-metre satellite ground station operational.
This infrastructure, developed through collaboration between engineers from the Ethiopian Space Science Geospatial Institute (SSGI) and a Chinese firm, represents a major advancement in the country’s space capabilities.
SSGI is Ethiopia’s primary public institute dedicated to space science and geospatial technology.
Established with a mission to produce internationally competitive research, the institute focuses on providing reliable satellite and geospatial information, developing technology, and facilitating industrial transfer.
In addition, SSGI aims to promote international and regional collaborations in space science, technology, and geospatial sectors while developing human resources to address professional gaps at both national and international levels.
The institute currently manages several large-scale national projects aligned with these objectives, with the Ethiopian Satellite Ground Station (ESGS) being one of its most significant undertakings.
Space in Africa spoke with Eshet Tesfaye Tafes, the project manager for the ground station, to gain insight into the project’s development, technical specifications, and strategic importance to Ethiopia’s space ambitions.
Source: https://spaceinafrica.com/2025/03/18/ethiopia-unveils-new-12-metre-satellite-ground-station/
