Herald Reporter
ZIMBABWE is preparing to launch into orbit its third satellite, ZimSat-3, a development expected to significantly strengthening the country’s capacity to use space-based technology for environmental management and national development.
Under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), the Government has prioritised the development and deployment of ZimSat-3, building on the foundations laid by the successful launches of ZimSat-1 and ZimSat-2.
The new satellite is expected to enhance Zimbabwe’s satellite-based data capabilities across critical sectors including agriculture, land use planning, mineral exploration, environmental monitoring, climate change adaptation and national security.
“During NDS 2, Government will prioritise the development and deployment of ZimSat-3 as part of the national space programme to enhance satellite-based data capabilities for land use planning, agriculture, mineral exploration, environmental monitoring, climate change adaptation and national security,” reads NDS2.
“The satellite will provide high-resolution imagery and improved remote sensing capabilities, enabling evidence-based decision making across key economic sectors.”
It is envisaged that in agriculture, the satellite will support precision farming by helping monitor crop health, soil moisture and vegetation patterns.
This will in turn help farmers and policymakers improve productivity, manage drought risks and optimise inputs.
In land use planning and urban development, the satellite imagery will allow authorities to map settlements, infrastructure and natural resources more accurately, improving spatial planning and service delivery.
Additionally, in the mining sector, ZimSat-3’s remote sensing capabilities are expected to support geological surveys by identifying surface features and anomalies associated with mineral deposits, reducing the cost and time of exploration.
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