The South African National Space Agency SANSA plays a critical role in safeguarding maritime environments and strengthening security through its Earth Observation EO capabilities.
By collecting, processing, archiving, and disseminating EO data, SANSA supports policymaking, economic growth, and sustainable development across South Africa.
As part of its commitment to Operation Phakisa’s oceans economy initiative, SANSA acquires weekly RADARSAT-2 satellite images over South Africa’s Exclusive Economic Zone EEZ, including Prince Edward and Marion Islands.
This data feeds into the National Oceans and Coastal Information Management System OCIMS, managed by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment DFFE, enhancing maritime domain awareness and decision-making tools.
Between 2018 and 2020, SANSA supplied over 1,000 RADARSAT-2 images to OCIMS, enabling near real-time vessel tracking and detection of suspicious activities within South Africa’s EEZ.
SANSA continues to advance its EO capabilities through international partnerships and cutting-edge technology.
Furthermore, integrating RADARSAT-2 data strengthens South Africa’s ability to govern ocean resources, manage fisheries, and mitigate environmental risks.
Source: https://spaceinafrica.com/2025/05/12/sansa-enhances-maritime-security-and-environmental-protection-through-earth-observation/
