Directorate of Launch Services and Space Operations
The Directorate of Launch Services and Space Operations (DLSO) is an operational directorate in Defence Space Administration (DSA) responsible for the research, tests and conduct of rocketry launch activities.
Director of Launch Services and Space Operations
Air Vice Marshal Yinkere Ebimobowei Dennis is a highly distinguished officer in the Nigerian Air Force with an extensive and exemplary career in engineering, aircraft maintenance, and strategic leadership. Born on November 20, 1968, he holds a range of academic qualifications that include a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the Nigerian Defence Academy, a Diploma in Aviation Theory from the People's Liberation Army of China, a Master's in International Relations and Strategic Studies from Benue State University, and a Master of Science in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan. Additionally, he is a Fellow of the National Defence College, Abuja. Throughout his career, he has attended numerous military courses, including engineering and aircraft maintenance training, aviation theory, and senior executive management courses, both within Nigeria and internationally. These include training at the Air Force Institute of Technology, Nigeria, the Air Force Aviation University in China, the US Air Force Special Operations School, and various other renowned military institutions. Air Vice Marshal Dennis has held several prominent leadership and technical positions within the Nigerian Air Force, showcasing his versatility and commitment to operational excellence. His appointments include Assistant Director of Facilities at the Directorate of Air Engineering, Chief Instructor at the Aircraft Maintenance School of the Air Force Institute of Technology, Engineering Control Officer at 131 Engineering Group, Commanding Officer of the Jet Aircraft Overhaul Centre and several logistics wings, including 14 Logistics Wing in Port Harcourt and 24 Logistics Wing in Abuja. He also served as Deputy Director of Research and Development at the Nigerian Air Force and later as Director of Aircraft Quality Assurance. In 2021, he became the Principal Monitoring Officer for the Project Implementation and Monitoring Team at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters, and in 2022, he was appointed Commander of the 643 Aircraft Maintenance Depot in Ikeja, Lagos. His international experience includes serving as the Foreign Liaison Officer for the A29 Super Tucano Aircraft Program in Ohio, USA, where he played a key role in the aircraft's acquisition and integration into the Nigerian Air Force. Throughout his career, Air Vice Marshal Dennis has been recognized for his exceptional leadership, technical expertise, and strategic contributions to the Nigerian Air Force. He has received numerous honors and awards, including the Distinguished Service Star (DSS), General Service Medal (GSM), Grand Service Star (GSS),and several other prestigious accolades. These honors underscore his dedication to service, professionalism, and advancing the Nigerian Air Force's capabilities.
Chronicle of Directors
About the Directorate
The Directorate of Launch Services and Satellite Operations (DLSO) is an operational directorate in Defence Space Administration (DSA) responsible for the research, tests and conduct of rocketry launch activities. The Directorate is also saddled with the obligations of coordinating and spear heading all indigenous and cross-border space operations leaned to the Administration. It is responsible for establishing key laboratories such as propulsion laboratories, chemical measuring machines,foundry and mechanical workshops among others.
Roles
a. Satellite launches.
b. Design and development of rockets
c. Launch pads acquisition and design.
d. Manufacture and custody of propellants
e. Launch of test and sounding rockets for experiments
f. Monitoring space for continuous information on disposition of satellites, space debris, asteroids and other harmful matters.
g. Ensure surveillance of entire vertical expanse including the atmosphere, near earth orbit and beyond.
h. Carry out multi-sensor data fusion for integration of satellite imagery with other data derived from airborne sensors such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles(UAVs).
i. Co-ordinate astronautics training and operations for space explorations.
Achievements
The DLSO has had 5 rocket launches since its inception. The last launch was carried out on 27 Feb 19. The rocket launch was a success as the rocket performed in line with the theoretical estimations from the design stage. Preparations are on for the next launch. The Directorate is vigorously building capacities of its personnel, 12 of which graduated from the first DSA/NARSDA/NIGCOMSAT organized Basic Space Course held in NARSDA. The DLSO is on track working towards other aspects of its responsibilities.
