The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has raised serious concerns over the illegal acquisition of lands surrounding the Ghana Radio Astronomy Observatory (GRAO) at Kuntunse, located in the Ga West Municipality of the Greater Accra Region.
The land, originally acquired over 40 years ago to support satellite observation, data collection, research, and training in Space Sciences, is now being overtaken by private developers, posing a significant threat to the operations of the facility.
During a news conference following a tour of the observatory on Tuesday, the management of the GRAO warned that ongoing construction near the site could render the observatory “useless” if not halted.
The facility, which plays a crucial role in global space science, is being impacted by interference from nearby settlements and household devices such as microwaves, disrupting radio signals and preventing satellite observations beyond 10 minutes.
Launched in 2017, the GRAO supports Ghana’s participation in space research, fostering the development of scientists and engineers.
It is a key component of Ghana’s National Space Science Policy, launched in 2024, which seeks to leverage space technology for national development, security, and sustainability.
A recent visit by the Ghana News Agency revealed that numerous buildings had been constructed around the facility, with some as close as 50 meters from the satellite dish.
Military officers were stationed at the site to provide security as contractors worked to build a fence around the remaining buffer zones.
Obrempong Toku Dum (VIII), Project Manager of the Via Sat Station (Real Time Earth Station), explained that an Executive Instrument in 1979 facilitated the procurement of 163 hectares of land for the Radio Astronomy Observatory.
However, the land has since been reduced to approximately 30 hectares, endangering the facility’s future viability.
“We want to create awareness about the importance of this facility. Ghana’s closeness to the equator presents an opportunity for us to attract investment into this facility,” Obrempong Dum VIII stated.
Dr. Joseph Bremang Tandoh, Director of the Ghana Space Science Technology Institute, emphasized that the observatory is a vital national asset and critical to the success of Ghana’s Space Science Policy. He appealed to both authorities and the public to help protect the facility from further encroachment and safeguard the investments made in it.
“Through this facility, many Ghanaians have been trained in data science and other professions, inspiring the next generation to pursue science. We have to protect it,” Dr. Tandoh urged.
GNA