Space Strategy 2036 sets direction for greater use of satellite technologies

The Space Strategy 2036 and the Space Mauritius website, which provide a long-term framework for strengthening Mauritius’ use of satellite technologies and space-based data to support research, drive innovation and promote sustainable development, were launched yesterday by the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC) in Ebène.

The Minister of Tertiary Education, Science and Research, Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon, attended the unveiling ceremony alongside MRIC Chairman, Dr Khemduth Singh Angateeah, and MRIC Executive Director, Professor Theesan Bahorun.

In his address, Minister Sukon highlighted the importance of developing Mauritius’ capacity in space science and technology and making greater use of satellite data to support national priorities. He referred to its potential applications in sectors such as agriculture and fisheries, where timely access to information can support productivity and informed decision-making.

He also called for greater awareness of the practical applications of satellite data, sector-specific training and stronger support for users to facilitate the uptake of available technologies across different sectors.

The event featured presentations on the Mauritius Space Initiative and the applications of satellite data. For their part, representatives of the MRIC, the Mauritius Meteorological Services and the Ministry of Housing and Lands highlighted the potential of space technologies and Earth observation data to support research, policymaking and national development.

The Space Strategy

The Space Strategy 2036 sets out four key priorities: developing national expertise in space science and technology; increasing the use of satellite data in policymaking; promoting collaborative research, particularly in the blue economy; and expanding partnerships with international space organisations, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), European Space Agency (ESA), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA).

It builds on several milestones, including the commissioning of the MRIC Ground Station in 2021 and the deployment of MIR-SAT1, the country’s first nanosatellite, under the KiboCUBE programme.

International cooperation has also expanded through a Memorandum of Understanding signed with the ISRO in 2023, collaboration with Airbus on satellite imagery, and Mauritius’ signing of the Artemis Accords in July 2026, alongside the designation of the MRIC as the National Focal Point for Space Matters in September 2026, with responsibility for coordinating the country’s international engagements in the space sector.

Looking ahead, the Strategy provides for enhanced Earth observation services across Mauritius’ 2.3 million square kilometres of Exclusive Economic Zone, the establishment of a National Space Data Repository, and stronger STEM education and skills development. In the longer term, it envisages the establishment of a National Space Agency and the development of a regional hub for climate data services.

06 October 2026

Email: gis@govmu.org

Website: https://gis.govmu.org

Mobile App: GIS News

Topics: Technology, Education, Artificial Intelligence, Innovation