03 Oct Call for Applications: Satellite Optical Communications Training for African Experts
The African Space Agency is pleased to announce a unique opportunity for African professionals to participate in the Satellite Optical Communications online course, conceived and developed by specialists from the European Space Agency (ESA) and the University of Oxford. The African Space Agency, with the European Commission, under the Africa-EU Space Partnership Programme (AESPP), a part of the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative, are supporting this initiative to train 10 African experts in Satellite Optical Communications, a critical enabler of the next generation of space-based services, offering solutions for high-capacity, secure, and resilient data transfer.
This training aims to provide participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical insights into satellite optical communications. Over the course of three half-days, participants will learn the basics of communication optics and explore technology challenges related to satellite optical communications, as well as receive an overview of existing optical systems and technologies.
AfSA is committed to strengthening local expertise and capacity development and will facilitate the training of 10 African SATCOM experts. To ensure inclusivity, AfSA will prioritise geographical representativeness and gender balance in the selection process.
Programme details
The Satellite Optical Communications course will take place online over three mornings on 14, 15, and 16 October 2025. Sessions will be delivered live via Microsoft Teams to replicate the experience of a virtual classroom. A certificate of attendance will be issued by the University of Oxford to participants who complete the full course.
Day 1: Tuesday 14 October
09:30-12:00 UK time (10:30-13:00 CEST), including break and Q&A
Basic concepts of optical communication systems (optical fibre principles and space-based comms)
Optical satellite telecommunications technical challenges
- Optical transmission through atmospheric turbulence (including OGS)
- Inter-satellite links (LEO-GEO) and constellations
- Ultra-high data rate optical feeder link
Day 2: Wednesday 15 October
09:30-12:00 UK time (10:30-13:00 CEST), including break and Q&A
- Satcom system architecture and design guidelines
- Current systems and technologies
Day 3: Thursday 16 October
09:30-12:00 UK time (10:30-13:00 CEST), including break and Q&A
- Quantum Key Distribution
- Quantum information network
- Market perspectives
How to Apply
To apply, interested candidates are required to submit a motivation letter and a letter of support from their respective institutions to info@africanspaceagency.org, and AfSA will select 10 participants from across the continent.
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is October 7th, 2025.
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