Accra, 16 August 2025 — Ghana is reaching for the stars with the launch of its first-ever radio astronomy station, transforming a 32-metre satellite dish at Kuntunse into a world-class telescope.
From Satellite to Science
Originally used for telecommunications, the dish has been refurbished to detect cosmic radio signals. It is now part of the African Very Long Baseline Interferometry Network (AVN), linking telescopes across the continent for space research.
Science Minister Dr. Kwaku Afriyie called the project a “turning point”:
“Ghana is no longer just a resource-rich country beneath the ground. We are now charting our path among the stars.”
What It Means for Ghana
The facility will allow Ghanaian scientists to study black holes, pulsars, and galaxies. It also provides training opportunities for students in astrophysics, engineering, and space science — fields rarely explored in West Africa.
Dr. Efua Osei, a young astrophysicist, said the project gives hope to Ghana’s scientific community:
“We have the talent here. What we lacked was infrastructure. Now, we can contribute to global discoveries.”
Broader Impact
The telescope is expected to boost Ghana’s role in the Square Kilometre Array project, the world’s largest radio telescope network.
What’s Next?
Beyond science, officials hope the project inspires Ghanaian youth to pursue careers in technology and innovation. For a nation known for its gold, cocoa, and football, space exploration may soon be another point of pride.