Côte d’Ivoire’s YAM-SAT-CI 01: Côte d’Ivoire to launch first satellite by 2025

Côte d’Ivoire plans to launch its first satellite — YAM-SAT-CI 01, an earth observation nanosatellite — within the next two years. A nanosatellite is a tiny satellite with a camera that can capture images of the country’s coastline, forests, natural parks, and urban areas. They typically weigh between 1 kg and 10 kg.

Côte d’Ivoire, a nation in West Africa, is making remarkable progress in space technology with preparations underway for the launch of its inaugural satellite, YAM-SAT-CI 01. This nanosatellite, purpose-built for earth observation, is slated to be deployed in the next two years.

YAM-SAT-CI 01’s primary mission is to capture high-resolution images of Côte d’Ivoire’s diverse landscapes, including its coastlines, forests, natural parks, and urban areas. Weighing between 1 kg and 10 kg, nanosatellites like this are equipped with advanced cameras that collect vital data.

The deployment of this locally developed satellite holds immense potential for various applications. YAM-SAT-CI 01 will assist in identifying, tracking, and mapping security threats such as illegal immigration, deforestation, illegal gold mining, soil humidity, and water reservoirs. Additionally, it can aid in mitigating the adverse effects of natural disasters like droughts and floods.

The introduction of YAM-SAT-CI 01 aligns with the government’s ongoing initiatives to regulate artisanal mining, combat illicit activities, and prevent further environmental degradation. By utilizing the satellite’s capabilities, Côte d’Ivoire aims to significantly enhance its monitoring and enforcement efforts.

This project is a joint collaboration between Universal Konstructors Associated, a private Ivorian company dedicated to advancing science and technology, and the Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphout-Boigny of Yamoussoukro. Together, they will oversee the construction of the satellite within Côte d’Ivoire itself, fostering local expertise and technical capabilities.

Simultaneously, the National Polytechnique has plans to introduce new academic programs in space and aviation, aiming to nurture a generation of skilled professionals equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities presented by space exploration and technology.

Furthermore, to promote astronomy and space science among the general public and encourage scientific literacy, the Ivoirian Association for Astronomy has been established. This organization will play a pivotal role in creating awareness and generating interest in these fields, ultimately inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators.

Côte d’Ivoire’s satellite endeavour closely follows Kenya’s recent milestone in space technology. In April 2023, Kenya successfully launched its first operational 3U Earth observation satellite, Taifa-1. The progress made by African nations in space exploration underscores the continent’s growing presence in this thrilling frontier and signals the potential for further advancements in the future.