Airbus Announces Contract to Build Angola’s EO Satellite, Angeo-1

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As part of French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit today, Airbus Defence and Space has announced a manufacturing agreement for Angeo-1, Angola’s first very high-performance Earth observation satellite. Angeo-1 will be built by Airbus Defence and Space in France, strengthening the collaboration between the two countries. Furthermore, as part of the partnership, a comprehensive training programme will be provided for Angolan engineers to build domestic competencies through targeted knowledge transfer.

Angeo-1, an Airbus S250 optical satellite, builds upon Airbus’ over 30-year experience in building highly reliable space systems. Once operational, it will become the region’s most advanced satellite, positioning Angola as a leading space power.

This satellite will further foster the country’s development in many different sectors, improving the life of Angolan citizens. In addition, sovereign access to satellite imagery will significantly contribute to the development of infrastructure, mapping of natural resources, and maritime surveillance, including fisheries, agriculture and population. It will also provide a better understanding of the origins and impacts of climate change on the economy, such as drought monitoring, rising sea levels and water resources. This will lead to better preparedness in natural disasters with improved response rates and reduced loss of assets.

Jean-Marc Nasr, Head of Space Systems at Airbus, said: “Space supports life on Earth. This is why I was honoured to join Presidents João Lourenço and Emmanuel Macron in supporting Angola’s far-sighted space ambitions. As Angola’s strategic partner for space, Airbus will deliver a latest-generation Earth observation satellite to support social and economic development, including a range of strategic activities such as urban planning and management of precious mineral resources.”

                                               Source: GGPEN

Angola has already developed various operational applications using satellite imagery from Airbus Defence and Space, such as land use mapping, agriculture monitoring and maritime surveillance and also operates its telecommunications satellite (Angosat-2).