Goonhilly Earth Station, based in Cornwall, has secured a new contract with the UK Space Agency to strengthen space communications services
It was announced at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan on October 16, and this agreement hopes to address the growing demands of space missions, particularly as robotic and human activities around the Moon increase.
Goonhilly’s space communications
The existing global network of large antennas is reaching its capacity as space exploration increases. With a growing number of missions launching beyond Earth orbit, such as lunar missions, the need for enhanced communication services has never been more critical.
Goonhilly is set to meet this challenge, using its extensive experience in commercial lunar and deep space communications.
Since 2021, Goonhilly has supported over 17 spacecraft beyond geostationary orbit, including small satellites deployed during NASA’s Artemis-I mission. The company has collaborated with various international organisations, including the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), demonstrating its capability to handle complex communication tasks.
The new contract is valued at up to £2 million for the current financial year and will enable Goonhilly to provide important services, such as downlink telemetry and navigation, to international partners. The long-term vision includes the expansion of uplink services, allowing control of spacecraft during missions, a service Goonhilly has already successfully executed for several notable projects.
The UK’s global space sector
Goonhilly’s efforts align with the UK’s aim to support its position in the global space sector. The nation is keen to capitalise on its competitive advantages, fostering innovation and attracting investment to support the burgeoning lunar economy.
This initiative is expected to create high-quality jobs and enhance the UK’s stature as a leader in space exploration.
The growth of deep space communications is particularly significant as the frequency of lunar missions increases. Upcoming missions, such as Intuitive Machines’ IM-2 and NASA’s Artemis-II, highlight the urgent need for robust communication networks. Goonhilly’s advanced capabilities are set to play a vital role in ensuring that these missions have the necessary support for successful operations.
Located in the heart of a vibrant cluster of approximately 300 space organisations in Cornwall and the South West, Goonhilly is an integral part of a sector that generates £600 million annually and employs around 3,200 people.
