The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) has refuted reports that South Africa is preparing to send two astronauts to the International Space Station.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the agency said there is no truth to the claim that South Africa plans to send two astronauts to the International Space Station within two years.
The reports came after the South African National Space Agency CEO Humbulani Mudau recently met with the Russian space agency.
Mudau said he was misquoted.
“We are still years away from the realisation of this incredible opportunity; however, SANSA remains committed to formalising such plans with our space partners in the near future. We will be sure to make the announcement a priority to inspire and excite the future generations of Afronauts to take their place in global space,” said Mudau
SANSA says it is already embarking on contributing to human space travel, through partnership in developing the next Deep Space Network to support manned and unmanned space exploration missions.
The construction of the infrastructure to be used has commenced in Matjiesfontein, Western Cape and is expected to be completed in 2025.
The agency says more about the cooperative BRICS space projects will be shared following the conclusion of the briefings from the relevant space agencies.
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