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Italian-run space centre in Kenya to be used again for earth observation
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MILAN (Reuters) – An Italian-run space centre in Kenya will be used again for the launch of Earth observation satellites in the coming years,
MILAN (Reuters) – An Italian-run space centre in Kenya will be used again for the launch of Earth observation satellites in the coming years, Italy’s industry minister said on Sunday.
The idea is to give a new, more ambitious mission to this base and use it for the launch of low-orbit micro satellites for Earth observation, particularly for climate change phenomena such as desertification,” Adolfo Urso told a press conference in Milan on the eve of the start of the International Astronautical Congress.
He said it would also be used for training of local students, industry experts and scientists.
Managed by Italian space agency ASI, the Luigi Broglio space centre is 30 kilometres (19 miles) north of Malindi and started its operations in the 1960s. Its last launch was in 1988.
Urso said that the re-launch of the space centre, which would materialise in a couple of years, was an ambition for both the Italian and Kenyan governments, and that it would fall in Rome’s so-called Mattei Plan, an Italian development initiative for African countries.
(Reporting by Giulia Segreti; Editing by Frances Kerry)
Earth observation refers to the collection of information about the Earth's physical, chemical, and biological systems via remote sensing technologies, often using satellites to monitor environmental changes and phenomena.
A satellite is a celestial body that orbits a planet or star. In the context of Earth observation, it refers to man-made devices launched into space to collect data about the Earth's surface and atmosphere.
Climate change refers to significant changes in global temperatures and weather patterns over time. It is primarily driven by human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions.
A training center is a facility designed to provide education and skill development in specific fields. In this context, it aims to train local students and industry experts in space and satellite technology.
The Mattei Plan is an Italian development initiative aimed at fostering economic growth and cooperation with African countries, focusing on sustainable development and investment opportunities.
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