Zimbabwe to Launch Third Satellite into Space in Less Than Five Years

Zimbabwe is set to launch its third earth observation satellite, ZimSat-3, just months after successfully deploying its second satellite, ZimSat-2. This rapid progression marks a significant milestone for the country’s space ambitions as it seeks to leverage satellite technology for national development.

The Southern African nation is also working on several communication satellites aimed at enhancing ground-based communications. According to Painos Gweme, Director-General of the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA), the latest satellite projects are progressing steadily.

“Take note that the satellite design, manufacture, test, and launch into space are not an event. There are several activities, processes, and stakeholders involved. However, our goal is not simply to launch satellites into space but to ensure that these satellites address the specific needs of Zimbabwe,” Gweme stated.

Zimbabwe’s space program is driven by the need to improve real-time earth observation capabilities. According to Gweme, the country currently lacks up-to-date satellite imaging, with the existing systems providing images every 5 to 6 hours. This data is crucial for agricultural monitoring, soil erosion assessments, and environmental tracking.

“For instance, we currently lack real-time earth observation capabilities that provide updated satellite images every 5 to 6 hours. This data is crucial for crop yield analysis, monitoring soil erosion, and assessing environmental changes. Thus, we are currently working on ZimSat-3 and other satellites, which are at various stages of production,” he added.

Zimbabwe launched ZimSat-2 in November 2024 after overcoming initial setbacks in May of the same year. The satellite was part of a commercial rideshare mission overseen by GK Launch Services, which took off from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia’s Amur Oblast.

ZimSat-1, the country’s first satellite, was launched in November 2022 and has since been utilized for monitoring drought conditions, mapping mining sites, and supporting other data-driven operations from the Mazowe Ground Station. The success of these missions has reinforced Zimbabwe’s commitment to expanding its space capabilities.

The government, through ZINGSA, views space exploration as a crucial component of Zimbabwe’s modernization and industrialization strategy. The agency has been upgrading the Mazowe Ground Control Station to accommodate advanced frequency bands, ensuring better communication and operational efficiency for its growing satellite fleet.

Moreover, Zimbabwe’s satellite technology has proven beneficial in regulating mining activities. Illegal mining operations have been a persistent challenge, and ZINGSA’s advanced space-based monitoring systems are being used to inspect affected villages and ensure public safety.

The launch of ZimSat-3 underscores Zimbabwe’s commitment to becoming a key player in Africa’s growing space industry. The government’s continued investment in satellite technology signals an ambition to harness space science for economic development, disaster management, and technological advancement.

With the successful deployment of ZimSat-3, Zimbabwe will further cement its status as a space-faring nation, joining the ranks of other African countries that are leveraging satellite technology to drive progress. As the nation continues to refine its space capabilities, the world will be watching to see how Zimbabwe maximizes its technological advancements for national and regional benefit.