On July 2, 2008, I had a fantastic discussion with Abebe Kebede, coordinator, of the African-Space-Science-Network Group and mentioned our excitement about being involved in the Google Lunar X PRIZE.

Because the JURBAN Team represents underserved and disadvantaged populations from around the world, I though it would be very important to reach out to Africa and request their involvement on the JURBAN Team.

Abede Kebede was extremely excited about Africa's involvement on the JURBAN Team and also contributing to the mission of the Google Lunar X PRIZE.

At the end of our discussion, we discussed JURBAN and the African-Space-Science-Network Group partnership opportunities for various African countries. The preliminary value proposition for African countries who participate is an increase in space exploration research, industry expansion to address the space exploration marketplace, as well as academic opportunities for students and research plans for college/university faculty.

Stay tuned for highlights on the JURBAN African-Space-Science-Network Group partnership.

Dr. J