Mr. Ernest Mortey, a member of the technical team that developed Ghana’s first successfully launched satellite into space, has commended his team for the remarkable achievement which has placed Ghana on the global market as the first African country to launch a satellite into space.

GhanaSat-1, which was developed by students at All Nations University in Koforidua, was sent into orbit from the International Space Centre.

It is the culmination of a two-year project, costing $50,000 (£40,000). It received support from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

The satellite will be used to monitor Ghana’s coastline for mapping purposes, and to build capacity in space science and technology.

Speaking in an interview with Kwame Tutu on Rainbow Radio 87.5Fm, Mr. Mortey who completed his education in 2013 and now a fully employed technical member, was optimistic this achievement will encourage students at the school to believe in themselves, study hard and do greater things than what they’ve achieved.

He expressed gratitude to President Akufo-Addo for his encouragement and support towards the project.

He revealed further that the school is working on GhanaSat2 and 3 which they will collaborate with government.

The GhanaSat2 will be used to monitor water pollution, illegal mining and deforestation, and to build capacity in space science and technology.

On his part, Project coordinator Dr Richard Damoah said the successful launch of the satellite marked a new beginning for the country.

According to him, the school when it was established, assessed some gaps in the science and technology area and in so doing, they identified some shortfalls which they have successfully impacted the students with.