GAINDESAT – 1a, is Senegal’s first satellite launched into space on Friday aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the United States.

August 16, 2024, therefore marks a historic day in Senegal’s existence as it now joins the list of countries with Satellites in orbit.

Maram Kaïré, director of the Senegalese Space Studies Agency, described the event as an important step and the progress of Senegal’s desire to be a space nation.

Kaïré went on to congratulate all of Senegalese and the teams who contributed to the success of this project.

In a statement on X, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye praised the local engineers and technicians for their five years of hard work, which he said prepares the country towards technological sovereignty.

The launch of GAINDESAT-1a demonstrates Senegal’s ambition to develop its technological and scientific capabilities while strengthening its position on the international stage.

The satellite can be used for various applications, such as Earth observation, communications, or scientific research.