By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The
Kenya Space Agency has announced that Kenya has been selected to host the 2026
edition of the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS)
programme, a global educational initiative that enables direct communication
between people on Earth and astronauts aboard the International Space Station
(ISS).
Kenya
is the only African country chosen for the 2026 hosting round, a development
that underscores the country’s growing prominence in space science, technology,
and innovation on the continent. The hosting window is scheduled to take place
between July and December 2026.
During
the programme, Kenyan students, industry professionals, and members of the
public will participate in live radio contact sessions with astronauts aboard
the ISS. The initiative is designed to inspire interest in science, technology,
engineering, and mathematics (STEM), while promoting innovation and awareness
of space science.
In
preparation for the event, the Kenya Space Agency will collaborate with an
assigned Pan-African Citizen Science e-Laboratory mentor and the ARISS Agency
Liaison, Harold S., to ensure the successful planning and execution of the
contact sessions.
The
ARISS programme represents a significant milestone for space education in
Kenya, providing a unique platform to engage young people and the wider public
in space-related learning and research. The Agency noted that an open call will
be announced in due course for individuals who wish to participate directly in
the live communication with astronauts aboard the ISS.
