Egypt receives first images from its remote sensing NexSat-1 satellite

The NARSS received on Tuesday night the first successful experimental data photo, capturing the image of Assiut governorate, through its affiliated reception station in Aswan, according to the statement.

The step shows Egypt’s ability to possess technical and technological capabilities for using satellites and receiving data from them, Ashour said.

After Aswan station’s engineers or NARSS specialized scientists do the required correction and processing, the experimental mono-spectral satellite image, of a 5-metre resolution, can hold potential for various critical applications such as agricultural and urban planning.

Egypt is witnessing a qualitative leap in remote sensing and satellite technology, Ashour said commenting on the event.

“Egypt's possession of these technologies confirms the country’s regional leadership in space and satellite technology,” he added.

NARSS has built the 67kg earth observation satellite NexSat-1, launched on 3 February from China, in collaboration with Berlin Space Technologies (BST).

“In light of Egypt hosting the headquarters of the African Space Agency (AfSA), this event reinforces the country's prominent position in offering space science and technology and remote sensing services to the continent,” the minister highlighted.

In February 2019, Egypt won the bid to host the AfSA and allocated $10 million for its operations.

In June 2023, the House of Representatives approved a presidential decree regarding Egypt's agreement to host the AfSA headquarters.

AfSA, founded by the African Union in 2016, helps achieve the sustainable development goals and Africa's Agenda 2063.

It aims to promote and coordinate the development and use of space science and technology in Africa, fostering cooperation inside and outside it, for the benefit of the continent and the whole world.