More than R100 million was invested by the Department of Science and Innovation and its entity the in the realisation of SA’s newly-launched space weather centre.
“The operational capability has been developed over the past three years and, to date, the DSI has invested over R70.89 million in the establishment of the 24/7 space weather capability,” Nzimande says. Explaining the significance of the new centre, Nzimande comments that early warnings and forecasts are crucial for protecting satellites, national power grids, communications and navigation systems from the harmful effects of solar storms and other space weather phenomena.
“As an innovation-oriented country, South Africa is hugely reliant on space-based applications and services, and therefore the establishment of SANSA is strategically important for addressing our local challenges and improving the lives of our citizens.