Space Engineer Urges NASRDA To Build Capability On Upcoming Technologies

The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has been advised by Prof. Spencer Onuh, a specialist in space engineering, to build human capability in cutting-edge technology.

Onuh made the suggestion, claiming that, with the exception of developing technologies, there are enough scientists in the space science and technology community with the ability to create satellites of choice during an interview with NAN.

Yet, he asserted that developing satellites required the use of new technologies such as big data, robots, and artificial intelligence.

“We have done well in human capacity, I have the confidence that if you challenge our scientists, they can produce any type of satellite you want them to produce.

“We are now talking about artificial intelligence, big data and it is an issue in every area of life and we don’t have personnel in these areas adequately yet.

“Space programme is all about emerging technologies, if you give a contract for your satellite to be designed and built by another country, that’s coding and whatever they put there, they can get it out.

“If they build the satellite for you, as the satellite is in space, they can be tapping it without your knowledge because you are not the one that coded it,’’ he added.

Onuh added that software engineering has room for additional human capacity development, therefore being proactive for the sector's development is necessary.

He also stated that space development needs continual learning.

He claimed that the nation needed to communicate its tales about space science engagements, its value, as well as capacity building and the development of essential infrastructure, more effectively.

“I believe geographically, nature has placed us at an advantage to have a centre for rocketry launch, so we should explore our advantage.

“We can manufacture our satellites, we should go for modular assembly, integration and test centre, not the bogus ones, but modular, small, useful and functional that is not that expensive,’’ Onuh said.