Science Engagement
Welcome to the wonderful world of space outreach
SANSA Science Centre
SANSA operates an accredited science centre from its Space Science facility in Hermanus, Western Cape. This dynamic centre focuses on the fascinating world of space science, using space as a tool to inspire and bridge gaps in scientific knowledge among learners. Open to learners, students, and the general public from all backgrounds, the centre provides an inclusive environment for exploration and discovery.
SANSA offers interactive workshops and on-site programmes designed to make science both exciting and accessible. Through hands-on activities, we aim to spark curiosity, develop critical thinking skills, and nurture a lifelong love for science in young minds.
The centre forms part of the South African Network of Science Centres and contributes towards the national campaign to build a society that knowledgeable about science, able to form opinions about science issues and scientifically literate.
Space and STEM Outreach
The SANSA outreach programme is a dynamic initiative designed to inspire and support STEM education among South African learners and educators. At the heart of this programme are school visits that offer enriching science experiences aligned with the Curriculum Assesment Policy Statement (CAPS). These visits are tailored to deepen understanding of space science and technology, while highlighting key national research priorities in the field.
Through structured learner and educator interactions, the outreach programme brings curriculum-linked science content to life, making complex space concepts accessible and exciting. These engagements aim to spark curiosity, strengthten classroom learning, and build a foundation for future careers in science and innovation. SANSA is committed to reaching all 52 districts across South Africa and school visits are a key vehicle for achieving this national vision. SANSA fosters partnerships that expand the reach and impact of its science awareness efforts. The Science Engagement teams leads this effort, drawing on an extensive network of collaborators to mobilise resources and create sustainable opportunities for outreach.
Space Clubs
SANSA runs a dynamic and growing Robotics Clubs programme designed to inspire and equip learners in the Overberg region with critical STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) skills. Currently, the programme supports 17 active Robotics Clubs, with a vision to expand to other districts in the future.
The Robotics Clubs use LEGO robotics kits, procured through grant funding, as a hands-on platform for learners to develop key 21st-century skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork. The clubs aim to introduce robotics and coding in an interactive and engaging way, bridging the gap between theory and real-world technology applications.
The SANSA Space Clubs learn how to build, code and operate the robots and compete in national and international competitions.
The clubs’ impact was prominently showcased during the World Robotics Olympiads (WRO) 2024, where SANSA coached two clubs that advanced to the provincial WRO competition in Cape Town. Notably, two teams from Hermanus Primary School qualified for the national finals held in Johannesburg on 14 September 2024, where one team earned second place and secured a spot to represent South Africa at the International WRO2024 in Turkey.
Through these Robotics Clubs, SANSA reaffirms its long-standing commitment to promoting STEM education and inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. By reaching learners across the Overberg with accessible, engaging robotics activities, SANSA is laying the foundation for a more technologically skilled and future-ready South Africa.
Public Tours
Public Tours at SANSA Hermanus take place on Wednesdays at 11:00 and is free of charge! The tour takes about an hour and includes the following thematic areas:
- Operational Space Weather Centre
- Engineering and Data in Africa and Antarctica
- Magnetically Clean Environment
- Science Centre
Please note the there are no public tours on public holidays and over the Christmas period.
Book your spot for this tour in the form below. Please note that access to the SANSA Hermanus site requires identity verification, due to it being a National Key Point site.
