From Orbit to Ground — Translating Space Technology into Indigenous Innovation & Jobs

This panel brings together leaders from the African Astronomical Society (AfAS), whose mission is to advance astronomy and space science in Africa by fostering collaboration, research, and capacity building, to examine how Africa’s astronomical assets, from world-class telescopes to pristine dark skies, are creating scientific breakthroughs, economic opportunities, and youth inspiration while positioning the continent as indispensable to humanity’s quest to understand the universe. Speakers will focus on Africa’s unique positioning in the global astronomy arena, infrastructure and milestones that mark key steps towards full scientific operations, economic impact beyond scientific discovery, and capacity building for the next generation of African astronomers.