The telescope was designed to provide a platform for the continued development of new techniques for imaging through algorithmic sequencing.
Kenya is making significant strides in space science, highlighted by a week-long workshop hosted by the Kenya Space Agency (KSA) that brought together astronomers and researchers from top universities.
The event, held in collaboration with the SARAO – South African Radio Astronomy Observatory, and the Electronic Research Foundation of New Zealand introduced participants to the Transient Array Radio Telescope (TART), a groundbreaking piece of equipment that enhances Kenya’s role in the field of radio astronomy.
A radio telescope is a specialised antenna and radio receiver designed to detect radio waves from astronomical radio sources in the sky such as planets, stars, and galaxies.
Continuously monitoring the whole sky, the telescope is designed to identify moving objects known in space science as transient phenomena such as satellites, near-Earth objects, and high-energy cosmic rays.
Scientists at the Kenya Space Agency interact with the TART Radio technology. /KENYA SPACE AGENCY
Additionally, the telescope was designed to provide a platform for the continued development of new techniques for imaging through algorithmic sequencing.
The workshop took place at The Technical University of Kenya (TUK) and attracted scholars, scientists, and engineers from institutions such as Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), the University of Nairobi (UoN), and Kenyatta University (KU).
With the installation of the TART network, Kenya has become the third country in Africa, after South Africa and Mauritius, to host this advanced technology. This positions the nation as a key player in space science on the continent.
Mauritius received its first such telescope in April 2024 while South Africa already possesses two of them. Â
The TART network, a collection of low-cost radio telescopes, allows researchers and students to study astronomical phenomena in real-time, significantly boosting space research capabilities in Africa.
Key Impacts and Benefits of the Workshop
Capacity Building in Radio Astronomy: The workshop allowed students, astronomers, and researchers to understand how the TART telescope works, thereby boosting Kenya’s expertise in radio astronomy. Learning from South African experts provided participants with valuable knowledge that will enhance their technical capacity and promote scientific discoveries.
Collaboration in Space Science: The workshop highlighted the strong partnership between Kenya, South Africa, and New Zealand in advancing space research. With the TART network to be deployed in eight African countries, this collaboration fosters continental cooperation in space exploration and research.
Advancing Kenya’s Space Infrastructure: The KSA has prioritized space science and astronomy infrastructure.Â
“Hosting TART is a significant milestone in KSA’s mission to develop space capabilities and facilities to support research, data analysis, and future space missions. These efforts aim to establish Kenya’s involvement in global space research, contributing to the growth of the country’s space economy,” said KSA in a statement.
Increased Research Opportunities: The workshop introduced Kenyan researchers to advanced tools and techniques used in radio astronomy, paving the way for more scientific studies and international collaborations. This will stimulate innovation and contribute to solving global challenges through space science, particularly in areas such as climate monitoring and communication systems.
The CEO of the KSA, Hillary Kipkosgey, emphasized that such initiatives are essential for Kenya to become a hub for space science in Africa.Â
“By introducing radio astronomy to researchers, the workshop has laid the groundwork for creating the necessary infrastructure, future academic programs, and research projects that will shape the future of Kenya’s space sector,” he stated.
Looking ahead, KSA intends to expand its efforts in nurturing talent and building space infrastructure by establishing an Astronomical Observatory in Kitui later this year, positioning Kenya as a leader in Africa’s growing space economy.
As the TART project grows, Kenya is set to benefit from enhanced capabilities in monitoring space phenomena and climate science, bringing the continent closer to harnessing the potential of space for development.
