Ibadan, 1 February 2024. – The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and Exolaunch GmbH (Exolaunch) have signed an agreement to provide free launch opportunities for Cube Satellites (CubeSats) to offer more countries access to space.
The collaboration is part of UNOOSA’s Access to Space for All initiative, which aims to foster capacity-building in space science and technology by providing hands-on and educational opportunities. Access to Space for All allows participants to gain invaluable knowledge and experience while supporting space activities in developing countries.
Through the Satellite Development Track, the initiative has supported four countries to launch their first satellite and more. Furthermore, the CubeSats have built capacity in human capital and contributed to the Sustainable Development Goals through their missions. The CubeSats have also engaged governments in aligning with international space law, registration practices and guidelines, and motivated younger generations in their countries to pursue STEM education and space careers.
Speaking on the agreement, Director of UNOOSA Aarti Holla Maini said, “I would like to thank Exolaunch for providing us with the opportunity to offer more developing countries access to space and with it the increased benefits of space technology and applications in support of the Sustainable Development Goals. I look forward to opening the call soon.”
With a clear need from the community to have more options to access space, this joint CubeSat launch opportunity will offer more chances for UN Member States to be engaged in space activities. As the significant role of satellites in our societies is becoming more understood, UNOOSA and Exolaunch will continue to promote the development of space activities and cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space.
