DRC Signs Deal With Spacebel to Develop Its First Earth Observation Satellite

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), through the Ministry of Higher Education, Universities, Scientific Research and Innovation, signed an agreement with the Belgian aerospace company Spacebel on 16 June to develop its first Earth observation satellite, RDC-SAT. The deal covers the satellite’s development, commissioning, and maintenance, marking a significant step in the country’s entry into operational Earth observation capabilities. Under the agreement, the satellite will be operated by the National Remote Sensing Centre (CNT) and is expected to be launched within four to five years.

Thierry du Pré-Werson, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Eric Lardinois, CEO of Spacebel, welcomed the development, noting that the company’s proposal was selected after several years of negotiations due to its strong technical merits and Spacebel’s established reputation in the sector.

Weighing 250 kilogrammes, RDC-SAT will be equipped with a hyperspectral optical instrument designed to capture high-resolution imagery of the Congolese territory, supporting a wide range of Earth observation applications. Beyond its technical specifications, the project also includes a capacity-building component, with Congolese engineers set to receive training in satellite operations and ground-based data processing, strengthening local expertise in space systems management.