NASRDA Acquires First Functional Radio Telescope to Advance Astronomy Research in Nigeria

The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has achieved a significant milestone in advancing astronomy research in Nigeria with the acquisition of its first functional radio telescope, worth over N44 million.

Dr Bonaventure Okere, Director of the Centre for Basic Space Science and Astronomy (CBSSA), announced the development to reporters in Abuja.

The decision to procure the telescope was driven by the agency’s commitment to foster a critical mass of astronomers who will play pivotal roles in the burgeoning field of astronomy in Africa. Astronomy, as a science, seeks to unravel the mysteries of the universe, encompassing everything from celestial bodies within our solar system to distant galaxies and the remnants of the Big Bang.

By studying phenomena beyond our planet, astronomers gain insights into our cosmic origins, the future trajectory of the universe, and the laws of physics under extreme conditions that cannot be replicated on Earth.

Dr Okere emphasized that the telescope’s acquisition aims to facilitate socio-economic development while nurturing the next generation of radio astronomers in Nigeria and across the African continent. The successful installation of the 3.7m Radio Telescope at the CBSSA office in Nsukka, Enugu State, is a testament to NASRDA’s efforts to be part of the global astronomy community.

Regrettably, the first 10m Radio Telescope, which was previously installed by a team of engineers and scientists at the University of Nigeria Nsukka, fell victim to vandalism. Nevertheless, determined to continue their astronomical pursuits, the agency worked diligently to secure a replacement.

The newly acquired telescope, calibrated by a team of Nigerian engineers and scientists, holds immense potential for various applications. It can be utilized for astronomy education, research, satellite tracking, and other scientific purposes, contributing to the nation’s scientific growth.

• Ph.D Fellowship in Educational Science
• Doctoral Researcher Positions in ICT
• Post-Doctoral/PhD position/Research Assistant in Ireland
• PhD Candidate (m/f/d) in Natural Science
• PhD Student in Medical Science

Collaboration played a pivotal role in making this achievement possible. NASRDA received support from various entities, including the Global Emerging Radio Astronomy Foundation (GERAF) in Canada, the Dunlap Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics in Canada, North West University (NWU) in Potchefstroom, South Africa, and the African Astronomical Society (AfAS), among others.

With this state-of-the-art radio telescope in operation, Nigeria takes a significant leap forward in space research and will undoubtedly contribute to broader astronomical endeavors, pushing the frontiers of scientific knowledge and exploration.