In the ever-evolving landscape of the African space industry, many conferences and workshops take centre stage, addressing crucial technological advancements, policy frameworks, and sustainable community practices on both the continental and international fronts. Devoted stakeholders within Africa’s space sector are increasingly committed to establishing robust platforms that nurture the growth of its space ecosystem on the continent. This dedication is evident in the conferences and workshops scheduled for 2024, each designed to significantly contribute to the broader global discourse on space exploration and development. 

Below is a list of relevant space conferences and events shaping the industry in 2024 and their global implications.

African Space-Related Industry Events

Astronomy  

The African Astronomical Society (AfAS)

The African Astronomical Society (AfAS) is a Pan-African Professional Society of Astronomers registered in South Africa as a non-profit, voluntary society. AfAS aims to create and support a globally competitive and collaborative astronomy community and be the voice of astronomy in Africa. In addition,  its key objective is to develop astronomy and human capacity throughout the continent of Africa through a vibrant and active AfAS. To this end, the astronomy organisation has been involved in various hackathons and conferences to bolster its goals and objectives.

Furthermore, the organisation has unveiled its upcoming fourth annual conference, AfAS-2024, in collaboration with Cadi Ayyad University and the Oukaimeden Observatory, scheduled for April 15 to 20, 2024. The conference will continue to use a hybrid format, facilitating in-person attendance and participation through a digital platform. This hybrid model allows for broader accessibility, encouraging contributions from across Africa and the globe. 

In addition, the conference programme is set to encompass enriching and engaging activities: science talks, education, development, outreach talks, the AfAS Business Meeting Special Sessions, public outreach events, networking, and side meetings. In the coming weeks, there will be a detailed announcement with all the necessary information, such as registration details, guidelines for abstracts and presentations, and critical deadlines.

Interested exhibitors and online participants are invited to register here. Similarly, for more information regarding forthcoming announcements, click here.

AfAS-2024 Data Science Hackathon

After the fourth annual AfAS Conference, the organisation will host a two-day Data Science Hackathon that will take place on April 21 to 22, 2024. This hackathon will offer undergraduate and postgraduate students and young professionals the chance to experience the entire machine learning pipeline, from conception to application. In addition, the research team will utilise the advanced South African ilifu data-intensive research cloud facility to achieve efficient results and support their work.

Furthermore, this hackathon will provide an excellent platform for participants to showcase their skills and enable them to network with peers from the African community. The event will be centred around teamwork, peer learning, and fun as the participants solve data challenges using machine learning. During the hackathon, participants can access tutorials and receive guidance from mentors. They will form teams of five and commence their work on the data challenge by employing machine learning techniques. Following the event, teams will prepare a presentation showcasing their results on the task and present it to a panel of expert judges.

Hackathons provide a platform for rapid prototyping, allowing teams to develop proof-of-concept models or viable products (MVPs) within a short time frame to demonstrate the feasibility of their ideas. This ensures that successful projects emerging from hackathons may have the potential to evolve into entrepreneurial ventures. This is particularly relevant to the African space industry, where innovative startups can drive technological advancements and contribute to economic growth. For more information, click here.

MeerKAT @5 Conference

The next edition of the MeerKAT Conference, themed “Celebrating transformational science, engineering, and human capacity development”, is set to be held from February 20 to 23, 2024 at Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS), Stellenbosch, South Africa. Moreso, 2024 marks five years since the first MeerKAT science paper; thus, the MeerKAT@5 conference aims to celebrate the telescope’s achievements in scientific, engineering, and human capacity development.

The conference will include invited and contributed presentations on high-impact MeerKAT science results, as well as invited presentations on topics including

• The innovative engineering required to deliver the instrument;
• The history of the project and its broader impact; and
• The outlook of the future of radio astronomy on the African continent.

The discussion on the future outlook of radio astronomy on the African continent provides insights into the strategic planning of the space industry. It indicates a forward-looking approach, emphasising the continued relevance, growth and sustained relevance of radio astronomy and, by extension, the broader space industry in Africa.

For more information, click here.

Satellite Communication

The International Conference on Military Satellite Communication and Cyber Security

The International Conference on Military Satellite Communication and Cyber Security, which aims to bring together leading academic scientists, researchers and research scholars to exchange and share their experiences and research results on all aspects of Military Satellite Communication and Cyber Security, will be held on April 11 to 12, 2024 in Cape Town, South Africa. In addition, It also provides a premier interdisciplinary platform for researchers, practitioners and educators to present and discuss the most recent innovations, trends, and concerns, as well as practical challenges encountered and solutions adopted in the fields of Military Satellite Communication and Cyber Security.

The conference’s focus on discussing trends and concerns in military satellite communication and cyber Security provides a platform for policymakers and strategic planners to stay abreast of evolving challenges. Insights gained from these discussions can inform the development of robust policies and strategies for securing space assets and communication systems within the African context, which can contribute to the broader understanding of the strategic significance of these domains, both in terms of national security and the advancement of space-related initiatives. For more information, click here.

Earth Observation

State of the Map 2024

The State of the Map is the annual event for all mappers and OpenStreetMap users. The 2024 conference is set to be held for three days virtually on-site in Nairobi, Kenya, between September 6 to 8, 2024. In addition, the event will feature engaging sessions, workshops, discussion rounds, and various interactive activities to aid a robust experience for participants.

Furthermore, the conference will serve as a forum for discussions on policy matters related to mapping and the space industry in Africa. This may involve addressing regulatory challenges, advocating for supportive policies, and discussing the role of space technology in various sectors such as agriculture, urban planning, and disaster management.

For more information, click here.

The 14th AARSE International Conference

The 14th AARSE International Conference, Earth Observations and Geospatial Science in Service of Sustainable Development Goals will be held between October 28 to November 1, 2024, Abidjan, Côte d’ivoire. The AARSE international conference is conducted biennially across Africa, alternately with the AfricaGIS conference. It is the premier forum in Africa for research on remote sensing technologies and geospatial information science, gathering leading scholars from remote sensing and related communities. 

AARSE is a non-political scientific organisation. Its primary objective is to increase the awareness of African governments and their institutions, the private sector and society at large about the empowering and enhancing benefits of developing, applying and responsibly utilising the products and services of Earth Observation Systems and Geo-information Technology. AARSE membership includes professional individuals, institutions and national associations from all over Africa and worldwide working in remote sensing, photogrammetry, and geographical information science domains. Click here to register and here to learn more about the conference. 

BIOPAMA

The Regional Centre for Mapping of Resources for Development (RCMRD) invites interested individuals to participate in its Data Workshop led by the Biodiversity and Protected Areas Management (BIOPAMA) Regional Resource Hub (RRH) from 18 to 22 March 2024. The training will be held physically at RCMRD premises in Nairobi, Kenya. The target participants are from following countries we cover in Eastern and Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

BIOPAMA aims to improve the long-term conservation and sustainable use of natural resources in protected areas and surrounding communities in African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries. It is an initiative of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States financed by the European Union’s 11th European Development Fund, jointly implemented by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission (JRC). Interested Participants should register here.

The 66th Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF 66)

IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC), in collaboration with partners, is organising the 66th Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF 66), themed “Early Warning for Anticipatory Action” for the March to May 2024 season on 20 – 21 February 2024 in Kampala, Uganda.

The forum will be held in a hybrid format (both in person and virtually on Zoom) and within the framework of IGAD’s Regional Strategy for Mainstreaming Climate Services in Key Socio-Economic Sectors for Sustainable Development. It will be preceded by the in-person climate prediction development workshop from 12 to 16 February 2024 and virtual co-production workshops.

The GHACOF 66 in Kampala offers a significant opportunity for the African Space Society to contribute to advancing climate prediction and applications by integrating space technology, fostering collaboration, and supporting sustainable development initiatives in the Greater Horn of Africa region. Click here to learn more about the forum.

Policy/ Capacity Building Conferences

The African Space Leadership Institute (ASLI)

The African Space Leadership Institute (ASLI) is organising a virtual colloquium series focused on the African Outer Space Programme, focusing on education, capacity building, and skills development in Africa between May 21 to 22, 2024. This forum is necessary as the African Union (AU) enters another phase of implementation of its continental space programme, i.e. the operationalisation of the African Space Agency.  For more information, click here.

The NewSpace Africa Conference 2024

Space in Africa, in conjunction with the African Union Commission, the Angola National Space Programme Management Office, under the auspices of the Ministry of Telecommunications, Information Technologies and Social Communication (MINTTIX), is organising the NewSpace Africa Conference 2024 from April 2 to 5, 2024 in Luanda, Angola. As Africa’s leading space event, the conference will bring together decision-makers from various African governments, national space agencies, industry leaders, NewSpace companies, and high-level stakeholders from all segments of the African space industry.

The conference, themed “The Role of Space in Closing Africa’s Poverty Gap,” will highlight the transformative potential of space initiatives in addressing socioeconomic disparities across Africa and serve as an avenue for discussing the best approach to leveraging space technology, including satellite communications, remote sensing, and geospatial data, to revolutionise various sectors, such as agriculture, healthcare, climate change, security, and infrastructure development.

How to Attend

Regular registration for interested participants is open till March 31,2024. Visit here to register. 

For more information, click here.

Law and Security

Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court Competition: Africa Region

Since its inception by the International Institute of Space Law (IISL) in 1992, the Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court Competition has grown to cover five world regions: North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Africa. More than 60 teams participate yearly in this competition. Registered teams get exclusive online access to papers from the IISL’s Colloquium Proceedings from 2005. 

Regional winners receive financial support to attend the World Finals. The IISL’s Lachs competition is particularly distinguished by the tradition of the International Court of Justice judges presiding over and judging the World Final. The World Finals competition takes place within the framework of the IISL’s annual Colloquium, a contained event in the International Astronautical Congress held on a different continent each year. The Lachs competition offers an unparalleled learning experience to all teams at all levels in a fair and cordial environment.

                                                                 Schedule For 2024

12 January 2024 (Friday)	Deadline for Submission of Requests for Clarifications
31 January 2024 (Wednesday)	Deadline for the Author of the Problem to give Response to Requests for Clarifications
09 February 2024 (Friday)	Registration Deadline: Africa Region (Note that there are NO registration fees)
18 – 22 March 2024	The week reserved for the National Rounds for the Country – Level Competitions
28 March 2024	Deadline for Memorials: Africa Region
24-26 April 2024	Regional Oral Rounds, Venue to be confirmed
21 June 2024	Deadline for Submission of Written Memorials for World Finals by Regional Winners
The 75th International Astronautical Congress (IAC), scheduled for 14-18 October 2024, in Milan, Italy	Oral Rounds of Semi-Finals (in-person)

For more information, click here.

Global Space Events

The International Conference on Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Space Science (ISTMAASS 2024)

The International Conference on Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Space Science (ISTMAASS 2024), is organising its conference focusing on global experts, researchers, and enthusiasts in the fields of astronomy, astrophysics, and space science on April 24 to 25, 2024 in the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 

ISTMAASS 2024 aims to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration among participants, enabling them to share their latest research findings, discuss emerging trends, and address critical challenges in the field. The conference program includes engaging keynote presentations by renowned experts, interactive panel discussions, and specialised sessions covering various topics, including cosmology, planetary science, astrophysical phenomena, space exploration, and more.

Attendees can present their research through oral and poster presentations, fostering insightful discussions and networking with peers worldwide. The conference will also feature an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge technologies, instruments, and advancements in astronomy, astrophysics, and space science. Interested Participants can register here and click here to learn more about the conference. 

The International Astronautical Congress (IAC)

The International Astronautical Congress (IAC), in collaboration with the Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIDAA) and the two co-hosts Italian Space Agency (ASI) and Leonardo, invites space enthusiasts to attend IAC 75th edition in Milian, Italy. The 75th International Astronautical Congress theme will be “Responsible Space for Sustainability”. 

The intention of the conference is to highlight the importance of Space as an environment that must be kept secure and open to exploration, peaceful use, and international cooperation by present and future generations in the interests of the planet and all nations, regardless of their level of development and without discrimination of any kind. This is crucial today as even more countries and public and private players are becoming actively involved in the space economy. 

Click here to learn more about the IAC 2024.

The Geospatial World Forum (GWF)

The Geospatial World Forum (GWF) invites geospatial enthusiasts to its 15th edition, themed ‘’Geospatial Transition: Powering the World Economy’’ from May 13-16, 2024 at Postillion Hotel & Convention Centre WTC Rotterdam, Netherlands. The forum fosters collaborative and interactive discussions that demonstrate the collective and shared vision of the global geospatial community. 

GWF is an annual gathering of geospatial professionals and leaders representing the entire ecosystem of public policies, national mapping agencies, private sector enterprises, multilateral and development organisations, scientific and academic institutions, and large end-users from government businesses and citizen services. Click here to learn more about the Forum.

UN-SPIDER Bonn International Conference on Space-based Solutions for Disaster Management – “Early Warnings for All”

In response to the escalating threats posed by natural and man-made disasters worldwide, the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) through its Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN-SPIDER) and the Center for Remote Sensing of Land Surfaces at the University of Bonn (ZFL) are invites relevant stakeholders to attend its UN-SPIDER Bonn International Conference, at the UN Campus in Bonn from March 12 to 14, 2024.

The conference marks the culmination of the “Spaceborne Earth Observation Applications for Emergency Response and Disaster Risk Reduction” (SPEAR) project’s first phase (2019-2024), focusing on disaster monitoring and prevention in Africa. 

Furthermore, discussions will address the “Early Warnings for All” initiative launched by the UN Secretary-General in March 2022, aiming to extend protection to every individual on Earth through comprehensive early warning systems by 2027. The conference, scheduled to conclude with a recap of achievements and lessons learned, seeks to foster collaboration and partnerships to enhance the global community’s ability to effectively prevent and respond to disaster risks. Interested attendees must register here and check here to learn more about the conference. 

Geo Week 2024

Geo Week is the premier event for increased integration between the built environment, advanced airborne/terrestrial geospatial technologies, and commercial 3D technologies. The next edition of Geo Week takes place February 11 to 13, 2024, at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado. 

The conference programme will spotlight case studies and conversations about the intersection of the geospatial and built world into the real world and the future. 

Attendees will get to explore the top-of-mind industry questions such as: 

• How are the latest advances in lidar expanding its capabilities and broadening its use? 
• Where are AI and Machine Learning making a difference in geospatial workflows? 
• What can the ‘democratisation’ of lidar and mobile mapping do for the surveying and mapping industry?  
• How can large-scale infrastructure projects take advantage of the latest in UAV, software and digital twin technology? 
• What does the construction lifecycle of the future look like? 
• How are emerging technologies helping to solve real-world problems? 
• How should you approach piloting a new technology and measuring its potential ROI?

Intending participants must register here and check here to learn more about the conference.