By Gifty Adjei
Ghana’s ambition to strengthen its position in global space science is facing increasing challenges at the Ghana Radio Astronomy Observatory, where scientists warn that growing human activity around the facility is disrupting sensitive research operations.
Established in 2017, the observatory was set up to enhance Ghana’s participation in radio astronomy and to contribute to international space research. It forms part of Africa’s expanding network of radio astronomy facilities that study signals from distant galaxies, stars, and other celestial objects.
At the centre of the facility is a 32-metre diameter radio telescope, the observatory’s signature instrument. It is designed to detect extremely faint radio signals from deep space and also helps track satellites moving across Ghana’s skies.
Supporting this core instrument is a precision time-keeping system, described by scientists as the most accurate clock in Ghana. It ensures that all signals received from space are precisely measured and synchronised with global scientific networks, enabling accurate and reliable research output.
The facility also has advanced computing and data processing systems that help analyse incoming signals and filter out unwanted noise. These systems convert raw radio data into usable scientific information for research.
In addition, control and monitoring rooms coordinate the telescope’s operations, ensuring continuous observation of space phenomena and maintaining the high precision required for radio astronomy.
However, scientists say these facilities are increasingly under threat. They report that, land reserved for scientific research is gradually being encroached upon, while surrounding human activities are introducing unregulated electronic signals into the environment.
According to researchers, these disturbances create what is known as radio frequency interference. The interference, generated by common electronic devices and household appliances, disrupts the weak signals the telescope is designed to capture from space.
Researcher at the observatory, Diana Klutse, explains that even small levels of interference can significantly distort scientific data.
She notes that the telescope is built to detect extremely faint signals from distant galaxies and stars, but electronic noise from the surrounding environment makes it difficult to separate genuine cosmic signals from human-made interference.
The and Astrophysicist and Manager of the observatory, Emmanuel Proven-Adzri, says the situation poses a serious threat to Ghana’s growing presence in space science.
He explains that radio astronomy requires a very controlled electromagnetic environment, and any unregulated activity around the facility can compromise the quality of research being conducted.
Dr. Proven-Adzri stresses the need to protect the observatory if Ghana is to remain competitive in global space research, especially as international interest in space exploration continues to expand.
The scientists are therefore calling for stronger regulation of activities around the facility, protection of reserved lands and increased public awareness of the importance of maintaining a clean radio environment.
They warn that without urgent action, Ghana’s progress in space science could be significantly slowed, affecting the country’s contribution to global scientific discovery.
