£33 Million Boost For National Space Programme

22nd July 2024

More than 20 national space projects have been announced today by DSIT Secretary of State Peter Kyle, on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow.

The projects, worth £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.

Eight major projects will receive £24 million of the total amount. These include funding for a sub-orbital rocket test by HyImpulse (Glasgow) from SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland, support for Rolls Royce (Derby) to develop micro reactors to support space exploration, and backing for Cambridge University spin-out SuperSharp to develop and launch a heat-detecting telescope to gather data that can be used to help tackle the climate crisis.

The funding will also support Lunasa (Harwell) to build and test technology to help satellites safely dock with one another, Orbit Fab (Harwell) to develop a solution for satellite refuelling, and Wayland Additive (Huddersfield) to develop an electronic propulsion system.

A project led by Spire Global (Glasgow) will further develop technology to supply unique weather forecasting data to global weather prediction centres, while ETL Systems (Hereford) will advance revolutionary ground equipment that links satellites to 5G and 6G mobile networks, improving connectivity.

DSIT Secretary of State Peter Kyle said, "From combatting 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.

Our £33m investment in these projects highlights the huge potential of the UK’s space industry, especially as we collaborate with international partners.

An additional 15 ‘Kick Starter’ projects will receive £9 million between them. These will support technologies and applications that are in an earlier stage of development and increase their readiness for use in commercial and scientific endeavours. The projects cover a wide range of space-related capabilities, from in-orbit servicing and manufacturing, as well as advanced material development and the use of satellite imagery.

Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, said, "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.

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.