Kenya has made major strides in its space exploration ambitions with the recent successful launch and recovery of the Nakuja 3.5 rocket.
The development and launch were a result of collaborative effort between the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and the Kenya Space Agency (KSA).
In a statement, the Kenya Space Agency said that the milestone achievement was realized on May 8, 2024, at the Isiolo School of Infantry Range during a field test.
“On Wednesday 8 May 2024, a joint team from the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and the Kenya Space Agency (KSA) achieved a significant milestone in field tests of the Nakuja 3.5 rocket.” read the statement.
The agency also noted that the Nakuja 3.5 Rocket recorded the highest seen distance among the Nakuja rocket series during the test.
“During the field tests carried out at the Isiolo School of Infantry Range, the Nakuja 3.5 rocket attained the highest apogee recorded in its series, before being safely recovered through successful deployment of its parachute,” said KSA.
Nakuja Project
The Nakuja series of rockets, part of an ongoing research and development project, aims to enhance Kenya’s capabilities in rocketry for future satellite and payload launch applications.
The successful launch and recovery of the Nakuja 3.5 rocket underscore the remarkable progress made by the joint JKUAT-KSA team in advancing rocketry design and development.
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The Nakuja project, which has seen the development of solid model rockets like N-1 and N-2, has now reached a significant milestone with the N-3 rockets, namely Kabura, Kifaru, Simba, and Tembo, showcasing the team’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of rocket technology in the region.
The initiative not only focuses on scientific breakthroughs but also serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring aerospace professionals.
As Kenya continues to invest in its space program, the Nakuja 3.5 launch serves as a testament to the country’s growing expertise and ambitions in the field of space technology.
In April 2023, the Kenya launched its first ever observation satellite named Taifa-1 into space in partnership with Space X.
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