Our Story
The Travelling Telescope is an award-winning astronomy outreach and astro-tourism company based both in Kenya and the UK. We create unforgettable experiences under Africa’s spectacular night skies while inspiring the next generation of scientists, explorers, and innovators.
Our story began beneath one of the most extraordinary sights in nature, the Total Solar Eclipse of November 3, 2013 in Turkana, northern Kenya. It was there that Susan Murabana Owen and Daniel Chu Owen met while witnessing the Moon completely cover the Sun. That moment of cosmic wonder sparked not only a partnership, but also a shared vision: to make astronomy accessible to everyone.
Susan brought years of experience in science education and outreach, while Chu contributed technical expertise in astronomy, film, and visual storytelling. Together they realised that the same skies that inspire astronomers also exist above classrooms, communities, and safari landscapes across Africa.
"Everyone deserves the chance to look through a telescope at least once in their lifetime."
"We bring the universe closer to people through unforgettable astronomy experiences, astrotourism adventures, education programs, and planetarium initiatives that inspire curiosity and expand access to science."
Today, the organisation has grown into a passionate team of astronomy communicators, educators, and graduates from Universities in Kenya, all dedicated to sharing the beauty and science of the Cosmos.
The Founders
Susan Murabana Owen is a leading voice in astronomy education and science communication in Africa. As Co-Founder and CEO of The Travelling Telescope, she has helped pioneer astronomy outreach, astro-tourism, and planetarium education across the continent.
Her work connects science, education, and tourism by bringing astronomy experiences to safari lodges, schools, and public spaces. Under her leadership, the organisation received the Europlanet Award for Science Engagement for its impact in science outreach.
Susan also plays key leadership roles internationally:
- Founding President – African Planetarium Society
- Board Member – International Planetarium Society & Board member - World Space Week
- Mentor – United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs Space for Women initiative
- National Coordinator – Universe Awareness
Her work has been featured by major international media including CNN, BBC, National Geographic, and The Guardian. She is passionate about ensuring that quality science education is accessible to all.
Daniel Chu Owen brings together astronomy communication skills, creativity, engineering, and a passion for astronomy outreach. Before co-founding The Travelling Telescope, he spent more than a decade working in the film industry in the United Kingdom.
After travelling to Kenya to witness the Total Solar Eclipse of November 3, 2013, he recognised the immense potential for astronomy outreach and astro-tourism in the region. Chu combines his background in photography, music, film production, and storytelling to create engaging astronomy experiences. He also designed and constructed the ‘one of a kind’ bamboo geodesic dome of the Nairobi Planetarium, demonstrating how sustainable materials and innovative design can support science education. His vision continues to help grow the emerging astro-tourism sector in East Africa.
Our Team
Our team includes astronomy graduates, science communicators, and educators who are all passionate about sharing the Universe with others. Together we work to make astronomy accessible, exciting, and inspiring for people of all backgrounds.
Employees
Ronald Wasilwa is an astronomer, astrophysicist, and planetarian at the Nairobi Planetarium. He believes that mathematics and physics are essential tools for understanding the nature of our vast and fascinating Universe.
Silvans Oyieko is a teacher by profession and a passionate science communicator. He believes that education does not only happen in the classroom, but can take place anywhere curiosity is encouraged.
Ian Amukowa is an astronomer and web developer at The Travelling Telescope, fueled by a deep-seated love for the cosmos. Whether he is tracking signals through radio astronomy or observing the wonders of optical astronomy, he is captivated by the vastness of space.
He believes that looking at the stars is the ultimate way to connect with our place in the universe.
“Beyond the sky, I am truly at home in the space between the stars. I find endless inspiration in the beauty of our galaxy and the planets we share it with.”
Interns
Alex Thomas Allmendinger Tilson was an intern with The Travelling Telescope in 2021 and 2022. He has a strong passion for astronomy, space exploration, and science communication.
During his time with the Travelling Telescope, Alex has helped with the construction of the Nairobi Planetarium and ran planetarium shows.
Intern with us →
Volunteers
Colin Clarke is an astrophysics graduate from County Meath, Ireland. He believes that astronomy is the “gateway science” — a field that inspires curiosity and connects people to the wider Universe.
Volunteer with us →