South Africa makes advances in astronomy research and infrastructure

South Africa has made significant strides in astronomy research and infrastructure, the most recent being the launch of the PRime-focus Infrared Microlensing Experiment (PRIME) telescope in Sutherland, Northern Cape, on 31 January 2025. 

The launch at the National Research Foundation-South African Astronomical Observatory (NRF-SAAO) is another milestone in realising the country's vision of establishing itself as a global hub for astronomical sciences and facilities, as outlined in the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation's (DSTI) National Strategy for Multiwavelength Astronomy.

Delivering the keynote address at the opening ceremony, Mr Imraan Patel, Deputy Director-General for Research Development and Support at the DSTI, said that the PRIME telescope strengthens South Africa's role in the knowledge economy, contributing to the big data revolution through world-class research.

"It also aligns with our Department's commitment to transformation and human capital by fostering opportunities for local scientists, students and engineers to engage in frontier research," said Mr. Patel.

Described as an advanced 1,8-metre infrared instrument, PRIME represents a groundbreaking development in astronomy.  Its primary focus will be on detecting gravitational microlensing events and discovering exoplanets, particularly Earth-mass systems.

Mr Patel said that the launch of the PRIME telescope cemented Sutherland's position as a leading site for global astronomical research, supporting not only South Africa's but the wider African continent's contribution to astronomy.  He also mentioned that Sutherland serves as a focal point for attracting domestic and international visitors interested in astronomy, cultural heritage and scientific discovery.

"The integration of astro-tourism with flagship astronomy projects like MeerKAT, South African Large Telescope (SALT), and now PRIME underscores the Department's commitment to leveraging scientific investments for broader societal impact, advancing innovation, ensuring inclusive growth and showcasing benefits such as job creation, skills development and tourism linked to astronomy infrastructure," said Mr Patel.

The National Strategy for Multiwavelength Astronomy leverages our country's historical strengths in astronomy, its geographic advantage of clear southern skies in the Karoo, and its robust engineering and scientific expertise.   

"It is for this reason that we have sought to use our flagship projects such as MeerKAT, the Square Kilometre Array and SALT to position South Africa at the forefront of global astronomical research," he said.

The telescope is a collaborative initiative between South Africa, Osaka University, the North American Space Administration's Goddard Space Flight Centre, the University of Maryland, and the Astrobiology Centre of Japan.

NRF Chairperson, Prof. Mosa Moshabela said that PRIME, as an international collaborative effort, exemplifies the power of partnerships in advancing the frontiers of science.

"The PRIME telescope launch marks another milestone in South Africa's journey to establish itself as a global hub for multiwavelength and multi-messenger astronomy.  This telescope will not only contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in infrared astronomy and exoplanet research but will also support transformation and skills development, benefiting our local communities," said Prof. Moshabela.

Principal Investigator for PRIME, Professor Takahiro Sumi of Osaka University, said that the data collected through PRIME can be used by anyone.  "This is one of the most significant benefits for the South African team.  Fifty percent of the telescope time will be spent on the Galactic Bulge Time Domain Survey, for searching for exoplanets and making data available to be used by anyone in the South African community," said Prof. Sumi.

The SAAO operates as a national research facility under the NRF, an entity of the DSTI.  Established over 200 years ago, the SAAO is the premier centre for optical and infrared astronomy in South Africa and the rest of the continent.  It has played a pivotal role in advancing astronomical research, technology development, and human capital growth.

This article was first published on 3 February by South Africa DSTI.