Every satellite needs a ride to orbit and a ground segment to talk to. The Directorate of Space Transportation helps African clients secure reliable, cost-effective launch access, manage mission logistics, and build the ground infrastructure that operations depend on. It also tracks the long-term case for launch and range capabilities on the continent.
Focus areas
- Launch brokerage. Matching African payloads to commercial and institutional launch and ride-share opportunities.
- Mission logistics. Export controls, shipping, integration campaigns and insurance coordination.
- Ground segment. Tracking, telemetry and command stations and mission operations centres.
- Spaceport studies. Assessing the technical, economic and regulatory case for African launch infrastructure.
- Space safety. Promoting responsible launch practice and orbital debris mitigation.
What the directorate delivers
| Output | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Launch plans | Launch options, schedules and costs for client missions |
| Logistics plans | End-to-end transport and integration arrangements |
| Ground segment designs | Specifications for stations and operations centres |
| Feasibility studies | Evidence on African launch and range infrastructure |
How it works across TAG
The directorate works with Technology, Engineering and Quality on mission assurance, with Finance on launch contracting, and with Strategy, Legal and External Matters on licensing and liability.