The introduction and launch of the first African satellite television by the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) is indeed a thing of joy and commendation from all Nigerians.
The space television station is an online television station that is broadcast by satellite with simulcast over the internet. Local cable television providers across the country and amateur television repeaters may carry this particular online television station at their own discretion.
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The NASRDA television is unique because it is particularly available via various cable, satellite and over the top media services around the world. This network was created and launched to provide NASRDA’s managers and engineers with real video of missions and media outlets with video footage.
The television station is also expected to air educational programming and provide live coverage of an array of manned missions, robotic missions, domestic and international launches.
The unique thing about this satellite and online television is that it is actually accessible to digital channels. The NASRDA television is expected to provide programming to schools, educational institutions and science museums.
The NASRDA media is to provide coverage in HD of news conferences and relevant video and audio materials to national and international news gathering organisations. The programmes are also streamed on the web.
The creation of these television channels underscores the agency’s and the government realisation of the importance of the potential of space technology and explorative activities in addressing real life challenges and improving the conditions of living of its citizenry.
The management of NASRDA, ably led by the ebullient Dr Halilu Ahmad Shaba must be commended for living up to the expectations and demands of Nigeria.
The greatest joy is the fact that the new platform has 100 per cent local content. This development has gone to show that the “can do’’ spirit is at work in NASRDA. Nigeria is indeed moving towards becoming a self-reliant country and soon to be among other developed countries of the world.
Musa Wada wrote from Abuja
