By Defence Circle/Images: Kenya Space Agency
A delegation from the Kenya Space Agency (KSA), led by Director General Maj Gen Hillary Kipkosgey, visited space industry and infrastructure facilities in Shandong Province, China, on 12 October 2026, as part of an industrial tour focused on satellite manufacturing, rocket production and space launch infrastructure.
During the visit, the delegation toured STAR.VISION’s ground station, data centre and Assembly, Integration and Test (AIT) facilities. The visit provided the Kenyan team with an opportunity to familiarise themselves with satellite manufacturing processes and the infrastructure required to support satellite operations.
The delegation also visited the Orienspace rocket factory, where members were briefed on rocket assembly processes and the manufacturing activities involved in launch vehicle production.
The tour continued at Haiyang Oriental, where the delegation explored land-based, maritime and ship-based spaceport platforms. These facilities highlighted the different approaches to developing space launch infrastructure and supporting launch operations.
The visits enabled the Kenya Space Agency delegation to gain a broader understanding of the interconnected nature of the space industry, from satellite manufacturing and data operations to rocket production and launch infrastructure.
The tour also provided insight into the relationship between the various components of the space ecosystem, demonstrating how satellite production, ground-based data facilities and launch systems work together to support space missions.
The engagement reflects Kenya’s interest in understanding space industry capabilities and infrastructure as the country continues to develop its space sector. Exposure to established industrial facilities provides opportunities to learn about manufacturing processes, operational systems and the infrastructure needed to support national space programmes.
By visiting facilities across the satellite and launch vehicle sectors, the delegation gained an overview of the industrial capabilities that underpin modern space operations and the close links between satellite technology, rocket manufacturing and launch platforms.