The UK space sector is poised for significant growth and innovation, thanks to recent government initiatives and funding boosts announced in conjunction with the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow. With a focus on fostering technological advancements and supporting regional space industries, these measures signal a bright future for the UK's position in the global space race.
£33 Million Boost for National Space Programme
The UK government has announced a substantial £33 million investment in the UK Space Agency's National Space Programme. This funding is aimed at accelerating the development of cutting-edge space technologies and supporting innovative projects that could lead to breakthroughs in satellite communications, Earth observation, and space exploration. The investment highlights the government's commitment to enhancing the UK's capabilities in the space sector and ensuring the nation remains at the forefront of space innovation.
Funding will go towards projects including a sub-orbital rocket test from SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland and the development and launch of a heat-detecting telescope to gather data to aid the fight against climate change. Details of all of the supported projects can be found here.
£10.9 Million for Scottish Space Sector
As part of the £33 million UK Government funding, Scotland's space industry received a significant boost - with £10.9 million of that investment going towards projects north of the border. This funding is expected to support the creation of many high-skilled jobs and investment in Scotland, and further advance Scotland's position as a leading hub for space activities.
The investment will support five Scottish projects, including a feasibility study into whether terrestrial directed energy drilling (plasmas/microwaves) could be adapted for space applications, specifically lunar exploration; and the development of a platform-agnostic modular robotic arm to perform contact dependent dynamic space operations, which will equip the UK with sovereign capabilities for inspecting, protecting, and repairing vital assets beyond Earth
This move underscores the strategic importance of regional development in the UK's broader space ambitions.
Call for Proposals for the ESA Earth Observation (EO) Programme, InCubed2
The UK and European Space Agencies have launched a new call for proposals for the ESA Earth Observation (EO) programme, InCubed2. UK entities are being invited to submit proposals aimed at developing innovative and commercially viable products and services that create or exploit the value of Earth observation images and datasets. Up to £3 million of funding is being made available for proposals from both industry and academia, with a requirement of match funding being in place for each project.
The current round of funding is aimed at innovation in public sector use of Earth Observation data, including in relation to climate and precipitation modelling and monitoring, sustainable agriculture and aquaculture, and solar and wind energy. The deadline for submissions is 12 September 2024 and further details can be found here.
Comment
These initiatives and funding announcements mark a transformative period for the UK space sector. With substantial investments and strategic plans in place, the UK is well-positioned to achieve significant advancements in space technology, create high-skilled jobs, and attract private investment. The future of the UK space industry looks promising, as it continues to build on its strengths and seize new opportunities on the global stage.
Please get in touch with Ally Burr, Kirsty Macpherson or Grant Campbell if you would like to discuss any space-related legal issues.
