Portsmouth Uni to Lead South Coast Satellite Data Boom
The University of Portsmouth is about to boost the UK’s space sector by hosting the brand new South Coast Centre of Excellence for satellite data. This cutting-edge hub will help businesses on the south coast tap into satellite technology to improve their products and services — think robot submarines navigating oceans with live satellite updates, just like drivers use real-time traffic info.
Satellite Data Set to Power Local Businesses
Backed by the University’s Institute of Industrial Research, the centre is co-funded by the Satellite Applications Catapult and the UK Space Agency. It’ll harness data from thousands of orbiting satellites capturing everything from weather patterns to GPS signals. This rich data stream can optimise maritime, marine, and autonomous systems industries along the south coast.
Professor David Brown, Industrial Systems expert, said:
“Satellites provide vital info about clouds, oceans, land and ice. They help us protect the environment, manage resources and respond to disasters. Leading this centre is a huge win for the University and local economy.”
Boosting Innovation, Jobs, and Growth
The Centre aims to partner with more than 20 small and medium businesses and industry players to turn satellite data into fresh products and services. Other partners include the Universities of Brighton and Southampton, National Oceanography Centre, Marine South East, Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, and Hampshire County Council.
Professor Catherine Harper, Dean of Creative and Cultural Industries, added:
“Our Institute’s close ties with industry mean this centre will bring real-world benefits to Portsmouth and beyond.”
UK Space Sector Eyes £40bn Market by 2030
The South Coast centre joins others in the south-west, East Midlands, north-east England, and Scotland, strengthening the UK’s national satellite network.
Universities and Science Minister Jo Johnson said:
“These centres are vital to helping our booming space sector reach £40 billion in value and create 100,000 jobs by 2030.”
Satellite Applications Catapult CEO Stuart Martin added:
“Expanding into the south expands opportunities, connecting industry, academia and SMEs to unlock the full potential of satellite data for new markets.”
