GGPEN showcases small satellite training opportunity at Luanda workshop
Date: 2025-11-05
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The
National Space Program Management Office (GGPEN) has participated in a workshop
focused on the importance of small satellites (Cansats), held at the Luanda
Science Center. The event was organized by the Alliance Française in
collaboration with the French Embassy in Angola.
Dr.
Eng. Lumonansoni Eduardo André, Coordinator of the National Space Education
Program, led the lecture and presented insights on the design, architecture,
construction, launch and operational processes of small satellites. The
workshop showcased a disassembled Cansat, offering trainees the chance to
identify and assemble key subsystems found in a conventional satellite,
including power, sensors, communication, data processing and payload
components.
During
the practical session, participants were challenged to integrate all the main
subsystems into the reduced volume of a Cansat, providing a hands-on
introduction to space engineering and real project development.
The
Cansat represents a conventional satellite built to fit within the volume of a
soda can. The first Angolan Cansat was developed through joint efforts between
GGPEN and the national academic community.
The
session was attended by 30 students along with representatives from the French
Embassy and the Alliance Française.
