In a significant boost to the UK’s space industry, DSIT Secretary of State Peter Kyle announced over 20 national space projects on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow. These projects, worth a combined £33 million, come from the UK Space Agency’s National Space Innovation Programme, designed to invest in high-potential technologies, drive innovation, and unlock growth across the UK.
Major Projects and Funding
Eight major projects will receive £24 million of the total funding. Key projects include:
- HyImpulse (Glasgow): £5 million for a sub-orbital rocket test from SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland.
- Rolls Royce (Derby): £4.8 million to develop micro reactors supporting space exploration.
- SuperSharp (Cambridge): £5 million to develop and launch a heat-detecting telescope to aid in climate crisis mitigation.
- Lúnasa (Harwell): £1 million to build and test technology for safe satellite docking.
- Orbit Fab (Harwell): £1.3 million to develop a satellite refueling solution.
- Wayland Additive (Huddersfield): £2.7 million to develop an electronic propulsion system.
- Spire Global (Glasgow): £3.5 million to develop technology for unique weather forecasting data.
- ETL Systems (Hereford): £690,000 to advance ground equipment linking satellites to 5G and 6G networks.
Secretary of State’s Statement
From combating climate change to staying connected with loved ones, space technologies play an important role in many aspects of our day-to-day lives. But backing the growth of UK space companies is also essential for driving economic growth, boosting productivity, and creating wealth in every community,” said DSIT Secretary of State Peter Kyle. “Our £33m investment in these projects highlights the huge potential of the UK’s space industry, especially as we collaborate with international partners.”
Additional Projects and ‘Kick Starter’ Initiatives
An additional 15 ‘Kick Starter’ projects will receive £9 million between them. These initiatives support early-stage development technologies and applications, ranging from in-orbit servicing and manufacturing to advanced material development and satellite imagery usage.
Dr. Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, commented, “These new projects will help kickstart growth, create more high-quality jobs, protect our planet, and preserve the space environment for future generations. They go to the heart of what we want to achieve as a national space agency that supports cutting-edge innovation, spreads opportunity across the UK, and delivers the benefits of space back to citizens on Earth.”
Industry Reactions
Chair of the UKspace trade association, John Hanley, said, “This investment into the space industry demonstrates the importance of funding through a national programme to unlock innovative collaborations in all parts of the UK. We hope this will further strengthen the sector and build upon the growth we have seen in recent years.”
Detailed Project Summaries
SHARP (Sustainable Hybrid: Accelerated Rocket Programme): £5 million to conduct the vertical launch of a sounding rocket from SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland, aiming for an orbital launch service.
An in-orbit demonstration of an unfolding TIR space telescope for climate change mitigation: £5 million to launch an innovative, unfolding thermal infrared (TIR) telescope for Earth Observation.
Space Nuclear Power Micro-Reactor Technology Development and Demonstration: £4.8 million to advance Space Micro-Reactors towards commercialisation.
OHMS-Sat (Operational Hyperspectral Microwave Sounder-Satellite): £3.5 million to develop technology for global weather prediction.
Electric Propulsion Innovations for Space and Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing: £2.7 million to adapt spacecraft electric propulsion technology for terrestrial applications.
SPITFIRE (Servicing Propellant Interface Technology For In-orbit Refuelling Effectiveness): £1.3 million to develop a high-pressure interface solution for satellite refueling.
Proximus Prime: Autonomous vision-based Rendezvous Proximity Operations (RPO) demonstration mission in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) using Small Satellites: £1 million to deploy an RPO Kit into Space.
DIF Lite project – Digital IF for Satellite mobile ground terminals and antennas: £690,000 to develop technology merging Non-Terrestrial Networks with terrestrial networks.
Conclusion
The newly announced projects mark a significant investment in the future of the UK’s space industry, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and global leadership. The funding aims to support technological advancements that will benefit both the space sector and broader scientific and commercial applications, ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of space exploration and innovation.
