Kenya will host the ARISS space radio program in 2026. Kenyans will speak live with astronauts aboard the ISS
Kenya has been picked to host the next phase of the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) program in 2026, giving the country a rare link to astronauts orbiting Earth.
The announcement was made by the Kenya Space Agency (KSA), which said the selection places Kenya at the centre of a global space education initiative.
According to KSA, Kenya is the sole African country chosen for the 2026 round of the program. The agency said the decision reflects Kenya’s rising profile in space science, technology, and innovation across the continent.
The selection is being viewed as a major milestone for local science and education efforts.
The hosting window will run from July to December 2026. During this period, Kenyan students, professionals, and members of the public will take part in live radio conversations with astronauts aboard the International Space Station.
These sessions are expected to spark interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, while also encouraging innovation in the space sector.
KSA said preparations will be carried out with both regional and international partners to ensure the radio contact sessions run smoothly.
The agency will work closely with a Pan-African Citizen Science e-Laboratory mentor and the assigned Agency Liaison, Harold Safary, to deliver a successful and meaningful experience.
The space agency also confirmed that an open call will be made for individuals who wish to directly speak with astronauts during the program. Details on how to apply will be shared closer to the event.
This will allow schools, youth groups, and interested citizens to take part in the once-in-a-lifetime exchange.
ARISS is a global education and outreach project that connects people on Earth with astronauts in space using amateur radio technology. It allows real-time questions and answers between students and crew members aboard the ISS.
Each live contact usually lasts around ten minutes, which is the time the space station remains within radio range of a specific location.
The program is supported by leading space agencies and radio groups worldwide. These include NASA, the European Space Agency, Roscosmos, JAXA, and the Canadian Space Agency, alongside amateur radio bodies such as ARRL and AMSAT.
Together, they provide technical support, coordination, and learning resources for the ISS radio activities.
Beyond voice conversations, the ISS also sends images to Earth using Slow-Scan Television technology. Anyone with a simple radio receiver and antenna can receive these images.
Astronauts operate the radio equipment during their free time, using systems similar to those used by licensed amateur radio operators on Earth.
Kenya’s selection for ARISS 2026 marks a big step forward in bringing space closer to the public, opening the door for learning, inspiration, and global connection from right here at home.
