The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has raised alarm over the illegal acquisition of land around the Ghana Radio Astronomy Observatory (GRAO) in Kuntunse, located within the Ga West Municipality of the Greater Accra Region. This land, initially secured over 40 years ago for satellite observation, space research, data collection, and training in Space Sciences, is now under threat due to encroaching private development.
At a press conference following a recent tour of the observatory, GRAO officials warned that the ongoing construction near the site could severely disrupt the facility’s operations. They highlighted that if the construction is not halted, the observatory could become “useless” as the surrounding activities interfere with its crucial scientific functions.
The GRAO, which has become an important player in global space research, is being affected by disturbances from nearby residential areas and household appliances, like microwaves, which disrupt radio signals. This interference prevents the observatory from conducting satellite observations beyond 10 minutes, undermining its research capabilities.
In operation since 2017, the GRAO plays a key role in advancing Ghana’s participation in space science, as well as nurturing local scientists and engineers. It is also a fundamental element of Ghana’s National Space Science Policy, introduced in 2024, which aims to harness space technology for national development, security, and sustainability.
A recent visit by the Ghana News Agency revealed extensive development in the vicinity of the observatory, with new buildings constructed just 50 meters from the satellite dish. To secure the site, military personnel were deployed as contractors worked to build a fence around the remaining buffer zones.
Obrempong Toku Dum (VIII), Project Manager of the Via Sat Station (Real Time Earth Station), explained that an Executive Instrument in 1979 led to the acquisition of 163 hectares for the observatory. However, the land has since been reduced to approximately 30 hectares, threatening the future sustainability of the facility.
Obrempong Dum VIII stressed the need to raise awareness about the significance of the observatory, noting that Ghana’s proximity to the equator offers a unique opportunity to attract investment in space research.
Dr. Joseph Bremang Tandoh, Director of the Ghana Space Science Technology Institute, underscored the observatory’s importance as a national asset. He called on both government authorities and the public to take action to protect the facility from further encroachment and preserve the investments made in it.
“This facility has played a crucial role in training Ghanaians in data science and related fields, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in science. We must protect it,” Dr. Tandoh appealed.
SOURCE: http://dew360.net | GNA
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