Prime Highlights:
- The UK Space Agency is investing £6.9 million in advanced satellite technology to strengthen Britain’s position as a European space leader.
- The funding will support five innovative projects under the ESA ARTES programme, improving connectivity, secure communications, and satellite services.
Key Facts:
- European satellite demand is expected to reach £40 billion by 2033, and even a small share could generate around £800 million for the UK economy.
- Projects funded include satellite refuelling, 5G satellite networks, lunar mission connectivity, and faster optical data transfer, supporting global internet and secure communications.
Background:
The UK Space Agency will invest £6.9 million in satellite technology to strengthen Britain’s role as a European leader in space. The funding will support five projects under the European Space Agency’s (ESA) ARTES programme, focusing on better connectivity and secure communications.
Space Minister Liz Lloyd said space technology is important in daily life, from navigation to online banking. She added that this investment will create skilled jobs and improve services across the country. “By backing our UK sector, we’re cementing our role as a European space leader while ensuring communities have access to essential space-enabled services,” she said.
The funded projects showcase cutting-edge developments in satellite communications. Orbit Fab will lead the ASTRAL project, receiving up to £2.9 million to develop technology that refuels satellites, helping them stay in orbit longer. Goonhilly Earth Station in Cornwall will create equipment to link lunar missions with ground systems.
Vicinity Technologies will set up a 5G satellite network to provide reliable internet everywhere. Archangel Lightworks, with Eutelsat, will test technology for faster satellite data transfer. Inmarsat Navigation Ventures Ltd (Viasat UK) will create a platform to manage secure satellite communications for governments.
Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, said the funding demonstrates how space innovation drives economic growth and real-world benefits, from improved connectivity to national security. European demand for satellites is expected to reach £40 billion by 2033, and just a small share could bring about £800 million to the UK economy.
The investment comes ahead of the ESA Ministerial Council in Bremen later this month, where the UK will discuss future contributions to European space initiatives. The projects reflect the government’s commitment to creating a globally competitive space sector while delivering tangible benefits to people’s everyday lives.
