Senegal has achieved a significant milestone by successfully launching its first satellite, GAINDESAT-1A, into orbit.
The satellite was launched from the Vandenberg base in California on Friday at 18:56 GMT, signaling a pivotal moment in the country’s pursuit of technological advancement.
This launch represents the culmination of five years of dedicated effort by Senegalese engineers and technicians, aimed at establishing the nation’s technological sovereignty.
The satellite is set to gather essential data for various state agencies, including the Directorate for Water Resources Management and Planning (DGPRE) and the National Civil Aviation and Meteorology Agency.
The project was a collaborative effort between Senegalese engineers and the French Montpellier University Space Centre (CSUM), with the satellite being carried into orbit by a Falcon 9 rocket.
The successful deployment of GAINDESAT-1A marks a new chapter in Senegal’s technological journey, reflecting the country’s growing capabilities in space technology.
