Nigeria to launch two earth observation satellites

Nigeria to launch two earth observation satellites

The launch of NigeriaSat-2 and NigeriaSat-X has been scheduled for Wednesday, August 17, in Russia, the Minister of Science and Technology, Professor Ita Ewa, has said.

Briefing reporters in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, on Sunday, the minister said the satellites would be launched simultaneously using a launch vehicle that had successfully launched more than 55 satellites into the orbit.

Data continuity

He said the new satellites would replace NigeriaSat-1 to ensure data continuity and to meet both local and international demand for high resolution images.

“The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has received confirmation from the launcher in Russia that the two satellites are now set for launch on the already scheduled date, having made all preparations both human and logistics for a successful launch,’’ he said.

Ewa said that the NigeriaSat-1, launched in 2003 with a life span of five year, had exceeded its designed lifespan in orbit and still working in full capacity.

Satellites’ input

He added that the satellites would also provide a high resolution imagery to map Nigeria once in every four months and to enhance food security by monthly crop monitoring.

The minister, who disclosed that he would be leading the Federal Government delegation to Russia, solicited the prayers of Nigerians for a successful launch.

Common phenomenon in satellite business

Meanwhile, the Director-General of NASRDA, Dr Seidu Mohammed, had earlier announced that the satellites would be launched on July 7.

The NARSDA’s Head of Media and Corporate Affairs, Mr Felix Ale, who announced the postponement in an interview with reporters, said the delay was a common phenomenon in satellite business.

NAN/Shakira/Williams