May 22, 2026
Bringing together global aviation and space weather experts in the heart of the Western Cape
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is proud to host the 2nd International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Space Weather User Workshop, bringing international experts and stakeholders to Hermanus from 8 to 9 June 2026.
This landmark event underscores South Africa’s growing role in the global space weather community and highlights the strategic investment made by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) in developing the country’s space weather capability.
About the Workshop
Space weather, driven by solar activity such as solar flares and geomagnetic storms, poses real and measurable risks to aviation operations worldwide. Disruptions to high-frequency radio communications, GPS navigation, and satellite-based systems can affect flight safety, particularly on polar and long-haul routes.
The workshop aims to facilitate understanding among users, regulators and other interested parties of the uses, benefits and uncertainties of space weather information, bringing clarity to an element that directly affects global aviation safety.
The ICAO Space Weather User Workshop series is a key forum for bridging the gap between space weather service providers and the aviation community. This second edition builds on the success of the inaugural event, deepening engagement across the international community.
Key Themes
· Impacts of space weather on HF communications and GPS/GNSS systems used in aviation
· Current and emerging space weather forecasting capabilities and their limitations
· Roles and responsibilities of aviation regulators, service providers, and meteorological authorities
· Coordination of space weather services under the ICAO global framework
· Best practices for integrating space weather information into flight operations
Why Hermanus?
SANSA’s Hermanus facility is one of Africa’s foremost space weather research and monitoring centres, and an ICAO designated provider of space weather information to the aviation sector, making it a natural and fitting host for this international workshop. The facility operates a suite of ground-based instruments that contribute to global space weather monitoring networks, and its team plays an active role in ICAO’s designated space weather service providers programme.
Hermanus itself, nestled along the scenic Western Cape coastline, offers a unique setting that combines scientific heritage with the renowned natural beauty of South Africa.
Event Details
Dates
8–9 June 2026
Venue
SANSA Hermanus, Western Cape
Host Organisation
SANSA, in partnership with ICAO
