An organisation for the promotion of Space Awareness, Education and Research for the benefit of all in
our nation.
About Us
For the past fifty years South Africa has played an important role in the 'Space Race' and is now establishing a fully operational space agency having already built its second satellite which successfully launched on 17th September 2009. Current developments in space science technologies, in South Africa, are a clear indication of the commitment the country has towards research, development and innovation within space sector.
The application of space technology is becoming increasingly important in South Africa, including everything from the formulation of policies to transport, agriculture, safety and security and the environment.
The South African space arena has become broader than activities linked to government and the time has come to establish a non-governmental forum to engage on a wide range of space science and technology issues.
The Foundation for Space Development is an organisation aspiring to the promotion of space awareness, education and research for the benefit of all in our nation.
Outreach and Education
Every South African child has the right to education and to be inspired. We believe in nation building and the sustainable development of a strong economy. The Foundation aims to benefit young South Africans through the provision of skills development as well as opportunities in this exciting new field. The Foundation also envisages assisting in the development of South Africa's future leaders in the field of space science and technology through assisting education programmes, scholarships and further support. We understand that support requires more than mere charity, it means getting actively involved to ensure sustainablility.
Space has become an integral part of our everyday life... and the economy as a whole. We could not operate without our reliance on space and thus awareness thereof is key. We will strive to build local awareness of space science and technology and its benefits with South Africans from all walks of life with a notable focus on those South Africans from disadvantaged communities.
The Space Arena provides important resources even to rural areas, for example surgery via satellite. These are live surgery sessions broadcast via satellite to remote hospitals provide a firsthand view of some of the most recent practices and procedures. Satellites are integral to urban planning, disaster management, navigation, food security and remote communication.
By creating awareness and support for these projects we can play an active role in improving the standard of living for people in all areas of South Africa.
Objectives:
Education in space, maths and science
Development and support of Research
Public space awareness
Development of Partnerships
We aim to integrate the Foundation with affiliated non-profit organisations to produce combined projects that can reach people in rural areas as well as financially support science centre mobile outreach programs and support the distribution of books to young learners.
The design of programs with affiliated organisations can increase the pool of space technology end users and encourage study in space, science and technology.
The distribution of funds raised will extend to bursaries, scholarships, mentorship programmes support and research grants.