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Ethiopia’s First Space Observatory Kick-Starts Astronomical Interest

Ethiopia’s First Space Observatory Kick-Starts Astronomical Interest

Written by James Jeffrey | From Al Jazeera

When Eyoas Ergetu was a child, he became interested in space science but couldn’t find anywhere to study it. He went on to become a mechanical engineering graduate student at Addis Ababa University, where he studies. And, now 24, he has managed to find an outlet for his thwarted celestial interests, thanks to Ethiopia’s first space observatory, the Entoto Observatory and Research Center.

“It’s very exciting to be working here,” he said beside one of the observatory’s two 1-meter telescopes, each of which weighs 6 tons and cost about $1.5 million.

The observatory sits atop the Entoto Mountains strewn with eucalyptus forest overlooking the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa. It has already opened its doors to researchers and students, and by the end of January, its two telescopes are expected to be declared fully functional by a panel of scientific inspectors.

At the same time, a feasibility study is well underway for construction of another space observatory at Lalibela, home to Ethiopia’s famous rock-hewn churches.

These observatories will kick-start space science technology in Ethiopia — an important boost to development, those involved say, as the technology has applications in myriad areas in the public and private sectors.

“Space science technology is often considered a luxury only for developed countries,” said Solomon Belay, Entoto’ director. “But it’s actually a basic and vital need for development.”

He points out how space science technology and research can be applied to many basic necessities of life, such as health and energy and food security, after which come applications in more advanced areas, such as environmental management, urban development and multiple business fields. It could even lead to Ethiopia’s building its own satellites, which is music to the ears of people like Ergetu.

“If Ethiopia is to launch satellites, it will need experts to design. I want to be one of those people,” he said, adding that he plans to start a graduate degree in aerospace engineering to enable him to participate.

Read more at Al Jazeera