South Africa Gears Up for the Second National Space Conference: A Focus on Sustainability
The second National Space Conference (NSC) will be held at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria, South Africa, from 28 to 30 August 2024. Organised by the National Earth Observations and Space Secretariat (NEOSS) and the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) on behalf of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), this year’s conference, themed “Space Science and Innovation for Sustainability,” aims to be a vital event for the growth of South Africa’s and Africa’s space ecosystem.
A Platform for Collaboration and Innovation
The National Space Conference (NSC) 2024 will bring together various stakeholders, including researchers, academics, public servants, businesses, data suppliers, consultants, and NGOs. in addition, this gathering provides a unique opportunity for these stakeholders to interact, exchange ideas, and discuss strategies for creating a sustainable space ecosystem. The conference aims to foster collaboration across sectors, driving national growth and development through innovative space programs and initiatives.
Engagement with African Space Agencies
The conference will also see the participation of the Heads of several African space agencies, providing a platform to showcase South Africa’s space capabilities and explore opportunities for partnerships and economic development across the continent. As part of the pre-conference activities, these officials, representing countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia and Zambia, have embarked on a national tour of South Africa’s space infrastructure. The tour included visits to key space facilities, offering the delegates a firsthand look at the country’s advancements in space technology.
Addressing Global Challenges Through Space Technology
Integrating space science and technology has become crucial for sustainable development in a world increasingly challenged by water scarcity, food insecurity, environmental disasters, and energy crises. Therefore, NSC 2024 will focus on the role of space and Earth observation technologies in enhancing decision-making processes and promoting societal, economic, and environmental progress. By pushing the boundaries of knowledge and application, the conference seeks to underscore the critical importance of space science in addressing these global challenges.
Furthermore, the National Space Conference is set to be a critical event for South Africa’s space sector, taking place days after the country hosted Africa’s first-ever IAU General Assembly, marking a historic moment in the IAU’s over 100-year existence. South Africa aims to capitalise on these significant events to emphasise the crucial role that space science and innovation play in achieving sustainability. Therefore, by bringing together diverse stakeholders and fostering discussions on collaborative efforts, the conference will play a vital role in building a strong and sustainable space ecosystem that supports national development and addresses global challenges.