KENYA JOINS ARISS AS ITS SOLE AFRICAN NATION

The Kenya Space Agency has announced that students, professionals and others will have an opportunity to communicate live over amateur radio with astronauts aboard the ISS. Kenya has become the only African nation chosen to participate in the program. Astronaut contacts are expected to take place between July and December.

The country's selection comes as it deepens its commitment to providing greater STEM education. The nation has been encouraging space science studies and innovation through efforts such as the Kenya National Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics Learning Ecosystem. This national emphasis is a major part of Vision 2030, a development initiative to industrialize and raise the quality of life in Kenya.

In preparation for ARISS participation, Kenya's space agency and the Pan-African Citizen Science e-Laboratory will collaborate on public outreach technical coordination and of course, the selection of schools and other educational institutions.