NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya has been selected to host the 2026 round of the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) programme, giving Kenyans a rare opportunity to communicate directly with astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The Kenya Space Agency announced the selection on Wednesday, describing it as a major milestone for space education and science innovation in the country.
Kenya is the only African country chosen for the 2026 ARISS hosting cycle, a distinction that underscores its growing profile in space science, research, and technology on the continent.
The ARISS programme is a global educational initiative that allows students and communities to engage astronauts on the ISS through live amateur radio communication.
According to the agency, the hosting window will run between July and December 2026. During this period, Kenyan students, professionals, and members of the public will participate in live radio contact sessions with astronauts orbiting Earth.
“These interactions are designed to inspire curiosity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, while promoting innovation and interest in space science,” the agency said.
Preparations for the programme will involve close collaboration with a Pan-African Citizen Science e-Laboratory mentor and the agency’s appointed liaison, Harold Safary, to ensure the sessions meet international technical and educational standards.
The Kenya Space Agency said the programme will serve as a platform to expand public engagement in space-related learning and strengthen Kenya’s space ecosystem.
“This marks a powerful milestone for space education in Kenya, bringing everyone closer to space and empowering the next generation of explorers and researchers,” the agency said.
An open call will be announced ahead of the event to select participants who will speak directly with astronauts aboard the ISS.
ARISS has previously been hosted by institutions in Europe, Asia and North America, and is regarded as one of the most impactful global outreach programmes linking space exploration with classroom learning and citizen science.
