South Africa is sending its B.A.L.L.S. to the Moon…
South Africa is developing a space project called Africa2Moon, which involves sending low-frequency radio telescope antennas to the Moon. The project, known as B.A.L.L.S., aims to study deep space signals and involves collaboration between several South African universities and research institutions.
Why it matters
This project represents a significant advancement for African space exploration and international scientific cooperation in lunar research.
Updated July 15, 2026, 2:07 p.m. | By Skyye Ndlovu
Before you panic, it’s not what you think…
South Africa is preparing to send its B.A.L.L.S. to the Moon.
However, before your imagination runs wild, we’re talking about a groundbreaking space project that could change how we study the universe.
The project, called Africa2Moon, aims to place the world’s first low-frequency radio telescope array on the Moon, marking a major milestone for both South Africa and the African continent.
The unusual name stands for Bounced African Low Lunar Spheres (B.A.L.L.S.).
These specially designed metal spheres each contain a low-frequency radio antenna that will help scientists detect radio signals from deep space that can’t be observed from Earth because of interference from our atmosphere.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in