ASRI successful rocket launch. Image: department of Science, Technology and Innovation
ASRI successful rocket launch. Image: department of Science, Technology and Innovation
(The Post News)- Every country strives towards advancing in all areas. South Africa can now boast about the Aerospace Systems Research Institutes success.
Earlier in December the South African National Space Agency, successfully tested a specialized payload on a research rocket.
The ASRI is located at the Denel Overberg Test Range facility in Arniston. The flight did not last hours, but merely 400 seconds. However, it was more than enough time for the rocket to measure Earth’s magnetic field.
ASRI, which was officially launched in May 2024, works under the mechanical engineering faculty at the University of KwaZulu- Natal. (UKZN)
What is ASRI exactly? Well, one might say it is the growth of The Aerospace Research Group. (ASReG) It was founded in 2009 by professors Jean Pitot and Michael Brooks.
The institute is now focused on designing, manufacturing and testing rocket propulsion systems.
They have three goals which they aim to achieve vigorously. Firstly, they want to become a global center of excellence in aerospace propulsion research and development. Secondly, they want to support South Africa’s space engineering economy. And finally, they want to further develop the skills of those interested in aerospace propulsion engineering.
ASRI’s rocket gantry was launched on 3 December 2024. The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina operated the launch.
“This gantry is a national asset that will be used to launch suborbital rockets built by ASRI,” Gina confirmed.
The facility is of such quality that it can support next-generation aerospace projects. This allows for further testing and preparation of advanced rocket systems while promoting critical research initiatives.
“The unveiling of the national sounding rocket facility is a significant step forward in realizing South Africa’s vision of a vibrant and sustainable space ecosystem,” said Sansa.
With the facility starting operations Sansa is positive that it will not only elevate South Africa’s position in global space research, but that it will inspire the next generation of space scientists, engineers and innovators.
Other countries may have us beat in space research and success, there are people hard at work to change that.
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