Zimbabwe Set to Launch Second Satellite into Orbit in November The Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA) has announced plans to launch its second satellite, ZIMSAT-2, into orbit in November 2023. The launch marks a significant milestone in the country’s space program and underscores its commitment to enhancing technological capabilities. ZIMSAT-2 is an Earth observation satellite that will provide high-resolution images and data for various applications. It will monitor agricultural activities, land use changes, environmental degradation, and natural resource management. The satellite will also support weather forecasting, disaster management, and infrastructure planning. The launch of ZIMSAT-2 follows the successful deployment of ZIMSAT-1 in 2020. The first satellite has been instrumental in providing valuable data for land mapping, resource exploration, and environmental protection. With the launch of ZIMSAT-2, Zimbabwe will have a more robust and comprehensive satellite constellation. The Zimbabwean government has allocated funds for the ZIMSAT-2 project, which includes satellite development, launch services, and ground station infrastructure. The satellite will be launched from a Chinese launch site aboard a Long March rocket. The launch of ZIMSAT-2 will position Zimbabwe as a leader in space technology within the African continent. It will contribute to the country’s economic and social development, foster scientific research, and inspire future generations of scientists and engineers. ZINGSA expects the launch of ZIMSAT-2 to have a transformative impact on various sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, environment, and disaster management. The data collected by the satellite will provide valuable insights and empower decision-makers to address challenges and promote sustainable development.Zimbabwe Prepares for Launch of Second Satellite, ZimSat-2Zimbabwe Prepares for Launch of Second Satellite, ZimSat-2 Zimbabwe is set to launch its second satellite, ZimSat-2, in November 2023. The launch, initially scheduled for May, was delayed due to technical issues. Enhanced Capabilities ZimSat-2 will be equipped with advanced sensors and imaging devices, enabling it to support various applications, including: * Mining exploration * Environmental hazard monitoring * Drought and human settlement management Technical Preparations The Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA) is finalizing technical preparations for the launch. The main payload, which caused the delay, is now ready. Testing and Launch Window Pre-launch testing of ZimSat-2 is complete, and the satellite is awaiting the launch window in November. The country aims to introduce three additional Earth observation satellites in the coming years. Significance for Zimbabwe ZimSat-1, launched in November 2022, currently assists in monitoring drought conditions and mine mapping. The government views space initiatives as crucial for the country’s modernization and industrialization efforts. Additional Information * ZimSat-2 will be launched from an undisclosed location. * The launch cost and funding sources have not been disclosed. * Zimbabwe is among a growing number of African nations investing in space technology.Zimbabwe is set to launch its second satellite into space in November, becoming the first African country to achieve this milestone. The satellite, named ZimSat-2, is a CubeSat designed and built by a team of Zimbabwean engineers. It will be launched from the United States and is expected to orbit the Earth for approximately two years. ZimSat-2 is a significant achievement for Zimbabwe’s space program, which was established in 2018. The first satellite, ZimSat-1, was launched in 2020 and successfully transmitted data back to Earth for several months. The launch of ZimSat-2 will provide Zimbabwe with valuable data for a variety of purposes, including agricultural monitoring, disaster management, and environmental protection. It will also help to train the next generation of Zimbabwean scientists and engineers. The launch of ZimSat-2 is a clear indication of Zimbabwe’s commitment to developing its space program. The country has invested heavily in space technology and has established partnerships with several international space agencies. The launch of ZimSat-2 is also a major step forward for Africa’s space industry. It is hoped that the success of Zimbabwe’s space program will inspire other African countries to develop their own space programs.