Southern hemisphere's first Space Geodesy and Geophysics Observatory in SA

The first Space Geodesy and Geophysics Observatory (SGGO) in the southern hemisphere has been launched.

According to Acer Africa the observatory, located in the Central Karoo District of Matjiesfontein in the Western Cape, "will enable students and scientists conduct their research and  facilitate classes on subjects like mapping, geosciences, engineering geology, geodesy, space geodesy and mineral exploration amongst others". 

Acer got involved with equipping the site with computers and Internet access, partnering with the Department of Science and Technology and the National Research Foundation to help make it a reality.

According to Acer's press release the observatory's research will include:

• Lunar Laser Ranging (LLR) and Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR)
• Plate Tectonics and Geodesy
• African Reference Framework (AFREF)
• Student Training (which could be as many as 15 students accommodated on site at any given time)
• Science Outreach and Community Service programmes
• International co-operation and research ventures e.g. with France and Germany

"The programme is aligned with the South African Government’s priorities and we fully support the approach of bringing different partners together in making such a programme work. Innovation is as much about networks and partnerships as it is about creative thinking,” Said Minister of Science and Technology Derek Hanekom.

Matjiesfontein was chosen because of the areas clear dark desert skies that contain little in the way of water vapour.

This makes it and ideal place to set up the first Lunar Laser Ranger in the southern hemisphere.

While at the moment the site currently benefits students from the Universities of Stellenbosch, Pretoria, KZN, North West; HartRAO and the Tshwane University of Technology, the project hopes to expand this to more institutions locally and internationally.

"Science should not be the elite preserve of a few academic individuals typically facilitated in a white jacketed laboratory" said Tshwane university's professor Environmental, Water and Earth Sciences, Dr Stoffel Fourie.

 “If you truly want to change your world, you must change your thinking.”