Ethiopia's first space observatory

 

Located in the hills outside of the capital, the Entoto Observatory and Research Center is propelling the nation forward in Africa's space race.

Three thousand two hundred meters above sea level, the observatory is an integral part of a programme launched by the Ethiopian Space Science Society (ESSS).

 An independent organization established in 2004, it is keen to utilize the station's unique location and ability to observe practically all the sky -- both northern and southern hemispheres

The ESSS' goals for the project are ambitious and clear: to promote space science and astronomy; establish a research center bringing together existing centers and universities; build international collaboration; and encourage space and space technology throughout the country.

The observatory represents a significant investment, with total costs running to $5 million so far. Funded by members of the ESSS and Saudi-Ethiopian billionaire Sheikh Mohammed Al Amoudi, it's hoped that the government will soon lend its weight -- and its check book -- to help expand the project.