EnduroSat, a Bulgaria-based satellite builder, is partnering with the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) to build the nation’s first satellite.

BOTSAT-1 will be built on EnduroSat’s 3U microsatellite platform and equipped with a hyperspectral camera to support the country’s mining and agricultural industries. The satellite which will be launched in 2025, will monitor and analyse ground and soil content, providing crucial data to help diversify Botswana’s mining operations and safeguard its agricultural sector from droughts and food insecurity.

The satellite, set to be completed in August 2024 and launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9, will be crucial in tackling Botswana’s developmental challenges, fostering technological innovation, and promoting sustainable development. In addition, Space X will supervise the launch’s logistics and conduct rigorous testing to ensure a smooth process.

EnduroSat Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Raycho Raychev praised BIUST’s strategic vision, stating that “The fact that [BIUST] has a long-term strategic growth vision and that they are following it strictly will enable them to build a formidable space programme.”

This collaboration marks a significant step forward for Botswana’s space ambitions, highlighting the importance of international partnerships in advancing scientific and technological capabilities.

https://spaceinafrica.com/2024/07/04/botswana-set-to-launch-its-first-satellite-in-2025/