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Kenya has been selected to host the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) program in 2026, giving Kenyans a rare opportunity to communicate directly with astronauts aboard the ISS.
The announcement, made on Friday, January 23, 2026, confirms Kenya as the only African country chosen for this prestigious global round.
The selection highlights Kenya’s rising influence in space science and its commitment to fostering high-level STEM education on the continent.
“Kenya is the only African country selected for this prestigious program in the 2026 round, underscoring the nation’s growing leadership in space science and innovation on the continent,” Kenya Space Agency stated on the announcement.
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Direct Line to the Stars
The ARISS program offers a rare, high-tech opportunity for students, industry professionals, and ordinary citizens to engage in live radio communication with astronauts orbiting the Earth.
During the designated hosting window scheduled between July and December 2026, participants will use amateur radio equipment to ask questions directly to the ISS crew, gaining firsthand insights into life in microgravity and the future of space exploration.
“The hosting window is scheduled between July and December 2026, during which Kenyan students, industry professionals and citizens will engage in live radio contact with astronauts, inspiring curiosity in STEM, industry innovation and space science,” Kenya Space Agency said.
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Preparation and Partnerships
The agency further stated that they will work closely with an assigned Pan-African Citizen Science e-Laboratory @pacselab mentor and Harold Safary, the Agency Liaison, to ensure a successful and impactful contact session.
The initiative aims to ignite curiosity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) while showcasing Kenyan innovation to a global audience.
“This marks a powerful milestone for space education in Kenya, bringing everyone closer to space and empowering the next generation of explorers and researchers,” Kenya Space Agency said.
The Kenya Space Agency further confirmed that an open call will be announced soon for those wishing to apply for the chance to speak directly with an astronaut.
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Part of the Kenya Space Agency accouncement on Friday, January 23, 2026. PHOTO/Screengrab by Hivileo