Square Kilometre Array in Africa: Listening to the Universe
Africa, the cradle of civilization, is set to uncover new alien life, galaxies, dark matter, and the deepest mysteries of the universe using a radio telescope.
The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) is a revolutionary radio telescope project in Southern Africa that will explore the universe using radio waves. Its goals include understanding the formation of galaxies, the nature of dark matter and dark energy, and the search for extraterrestrial life.
Set to be one of the largest and most advanced radio telescopes in the world, it will include over 2,000 antennas and radio dishes across South Africa and eight other African countries.
Radio telescope in South Africa
Radio Tuned to Listen to the Universe: Astrophysics in Africa
The SKA’s name comes from its one square kilometre of total collecting area, achieved by combining signals from thousands of antennas spread across Africa. It will be one of the most sensitive telescopes ever built, detecting faint radio signals from across the cosmos.
This telescope will enable African astronomers to make major discoveries in astrophysics, helping answer fundamental questions about galaxies, dark energy, and life beyond Earth.
The universe has a voice
The Square Kilometre Array in South Africa
The SKA will have two main components — the SKA-Mid array in South Africa and the SKA-Low array in Australia. South Africa’s portion will include over 130,000 antennas, stretching into Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zambia.
The main site is in the Karoo desert, chosen for its clear skies and minimal radio interference. Its vast flat terrain allows precise antenna alignment, perfect for deep space listening.
Listening to the universe from Africa
Building the World’s Largest Radio Telescope
Construction began in 2011, with completion expected in the early 2030s. At a cost of $2.3 billion USD, the SKA is a collaboration among more than 20 nations. It is designed to explore the universe’s deepest mysteries — from galaxy formation to dark matter — and perhaps detect alien signals.
While construction may affect the Karoo ecosystem, environmental impact studies ensure minimal disruption and responsible development.
What secrets will be revealed?
Frequently Asked Questions About the SKA in Africa
What is the purpose of the Square Kilometre Array?
The SKA will explore the origins of galaxies, study dark matter and dark energy, and search for signs of extraterrestrial life using radio waves.
Why is the SKA located in Africa?
The Karoo desert in South Africa offers clear skies, low interference, and vast open land — ideal for radio astronomy.
How many countries are involved in the SKA project?
More than 20 countries fund and collaborate on the SKA, with African nations like Ghana, Kenya, and Namibia hosting components.
When will the SKA be completed?
The telescope is expected to be fully operational in the early 2030s, with initial phases already underway.
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