Ethiopia Partners with China to Launch ETRSS-2 Remote Sensing Satellite
Ethiopia has signed a contract to develop its second Remote Sensing Satellite (ETRSS-2) with the China Academy of Science – Shanghai Engineering Center for Microsatellites. The Ethiopian Space Science and Geospatial Institute (SSGI) will complete the satellite in 18 months. Once launched, ETRSS-2 will operate for five years.
SSGI will establish centers for monitoring crops, forests, and water. They will also create centers to manage risks from flooding, landslides, and natural disasters. These centers will provide up-to-date information to support decision-making and policy formulation.
Interview with Dr. Abdissa Yilma, Director General of the Ethiopian Space Science and Geospatial Institute (SSGI)
News Directory 3: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today, Dr. Abdissa Yilma. Ethiopia’s recent contract with the China Academy of Science for the development of the ETRSS-2 satellite is significant. Can you explain the primary objectives of this satellite?
Dr. Abdissa Yilma: Thank you for having me. The ETRSS-2 satellite aims to enhance our capabilities in remote sensing, particularly in agriculture, forestry, and water resource management. By monitoring these vital sectors, we can make informed decisions that will ultimately support our national development goals and improve the livelihoods of our citizens.
News Directory 3: What specific functions will the satellite serve upon its launch?
Dr. Abdissa Yilma: Once launched, ETRSS-2 will enable us to monitor crops and assess forest conditions, allowing us to track agricultural productivity and environmental changes effectively. Additionally, the satellite will support disaster management efforts by providing early warning signals for flooding, landslides, and other natural disasters.
News Directory 3: The partnership with the China Academy of Science seems to be a critical element of this project. What are the benefits of this collaboration?
Dr. Abdissa Yilma: Absolutely. Partnering with the China Academy of Science, particularly the Shanghai Engineering Center for Microsatellites, allows us to leverage their expertise in satellite technology. Their experience—having launched 38 satellites over the past 20 years—ensures that we are getting world-class technical support. This collaboration is vital not just for Ethiopia but serves as a model for other African nations looking to advance their space programs.
News Directory 3: You mentioned the establishment of monitoring centers associated with this satellite. Can you elaborate on what these will entail?
Dr. Abdissa Yilma: The centers we will establish will focus on real-time monitoring and data analysis. They will provide crucial information for stakeholders in agriculture, forestry, and disaster management. By delivering up-to-date data, we empower policymakers to make evidence-based decisions that enhance resilience against climate change and natural disasters.
News Directory 3: Looking forward, how do you envision the role of space science and technology in Ethiopia’s future?
Dr. Abdissa Yilma: Space science is essential for our national development and plays a crucial role in addressing complex challenges such as food security, natural disasters, and climate change. As we advance in this field, we expect to not only improve our local capabilities but also to contribute to regional and global space initiatives. Ultimately, our goal is to cultivate a robust space science sector that can drive sustainable development across Africa.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Dr. Abdissa Yilma, for this enlightening discussion. We look forward to following Ethiopia’s progress in space science.
Dr. Abdissa Yilma: Thank you for your interest. We are excited about the journey ahead.
Ethiopia aims to advance in space science, which SSGI Director General Abdissa Yilma describes as essential. Xiaocheng Zhu, Vice Director of the Scientific Research & Engineering Department at Shanghai Microsatellites, stated that they have launched 38 satellites in 20 years. He emphasized that this partnership is important not just for Ethiopia but for Africa as a whole.