Angeo-1 Earth Observation Satellite Sold to Angola
An agreement has been reached for Angeo-1, the first very high performance Angolan Earth observation satellite, to be manufactured by Airbus Defense and Space in France.
"As Angola’s strategic partner for space, Airbus will deliver a latest-generation Earth observation satellite to support social and economic development including a range of strategic activities."
Jean-Marc Nasr, Head of Space Systems at Airbus.
The agreement was signed during French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent trip to Angola, which has already developed various operational applications using satellite imagery from Airbus Defense and Space, such as land use mapping, agriculture monitoring and maritime surveillance and also operates its own telecommunications satellite (Angosat-2).
An Airbus S250 optical satellite, Angeo-1 builds upon Airbus’ more than 30 year experience in building highly reliable space systems. Once in operation, it will become the most advanced satellite in its class in the region, positioning Angola as a leading space power.
Angeo-1 Satellite has a Versatile Mission
The Angeo-1 satellite will further foster the development of the country in many different sectors, improving the life of Angolan citizens. Sovereign access to satellite imagery will make a significant contribution to the development of infrastructure, mapping of natural resources, maritime surveillance including fisheries, agriculture and population. It will also provide a better understanding of the origins and impacts of climate change on the economy, such as drought monitoring, rising sea levels and water resources. This will lead to being better prepared in case of natural disasters with improved response rates and reduced loss of assets.
“Space supports life on Earth. This is why I was honoured to join Presidents João Lourenço and Emmanuel Macron to support Angola’s far-sighted space ambitions," said Jean-Marc Nasr, Head of Space Systems at Airbus. "As Angola’s strategic partner for space, Airbus will deliver a latest-generation Earth observation satellite to support social and economic development including a range of strategic activities such as urban planning and management of precious mineral resources.”
As part of the partnership, a comprehensive training program will be provided for Angolan engineers to build domestic competencies through targeted knowledge transfer.
(Source: Airbus news release. Images provided and from file)