The UK Space Agency has invested 2.1 million in hyper-advanced space technologies throughout it’s Enabling Technologies Programme, a crucial part of the National Space Innovation Programme
This announcement from the UK Space Agency is aimed at propelling UK-based space companies to the forefront of spaceflight technology.
Ultimately, this milestone marks the beginning of a series of funding rounds open to commercial businesses, academic institutions, and not-for-profit organisations that are pioneering groundbreaking technologies to elevate UK space capabilities.
UK Space Agency investment: growing expertise in space sciences
Craig Brown, Director of Investment at the UK Space Agency, expressed his excitement about the nine selected projects, emphasising how they demonstrate the increasing diversity of skills in space-related science and engineering found throughout the UK.
The United Kingdom continues to lead the world in space breakthroughs due to the UK Space Agency’s funding for cutting-edge and novel space technologies, including electrothermal propulsion, extreme ultraviolet Integral Field Spectroscopy, and space-based solar power.
As Craig Brown, UK Space Agency Director of Investment, states:
“We ensure that the UK stays at the forefront of global advances in space by generating more business opportunities and inspiring more people about the many career options that this thriving sector offers.”
Transformative technologies to extend the lifespan of satellites
Among the recipients of the investment is Wales-based Space Forge, whose Project Helios aims to develop a retractable solar array in collaboration with Microlink Devices.
This innovation will enable returnable spacecraft and in-orbit servicing, thereby extending the lifespan of other satellites in space.
By harnessing the power of the sun, Space Forge’s solution promises to revolutionise space missions and ensure the sustainability of space infrastructure.
Durham University advances observations of the Sun and high-energy astrophysics
Durham University is set to receive support for the development of image slicer technology, a pioneering integral field spectrograph in the extreme ultraviolet.
This cutting-edge technology has the potential to transform our understanding of the Sun and high-energy astrophysics.
By enhancing our observations in these areas, researchers at Durham University will contribute to significant breakthroughs and further our knowledge of celestial phenomena.
The national space strategy prioritises growth of the UK Space sector
Supporting experts and organisations across the country to foster growth in the UK space sector and the wider economy is a top priority of the National Space Strategy.
In line with this objective, the UK Space Agency committed £71 million last year to back the development of new technologies.
This investment aims to empower smaller businesses in their quest to innovate and reduce reliance on non-European nations for space capabilities.
Moreover, it seeks to bolster emerging areas of space exploration, including the promising field of space-based solar power.
It seeks to bolster emerging areas of space exploration, including the promising field of space-based solar power
Through this strategic investment, the UK Space Agency is propelling the nation’s space industry forward, enabling groundbreaking advancements, and securing a prominent position in the global space race.
The support provided will not only drive economic growth but also inspire future generations to pursue careers in the flourishing area of space technology.
