The UK Space Agency is Funding 23 Space Tech Projects

The UK Space Agency has launched an exciting initiative, funding £4 million into 23 innovative projects under the Enabling Technologies Programme (ETP). This fund, comprising £3.2 million from the UK Space Agency and £800,000 from the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), is set to enhance the UK’s role in the development of new space technologies and their global application.
 

The Essence of Innovation: Protecting Earth and Beyond

 
Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, spoke on the importance of space science and technology in solving Earth’s problems. “Space science and technology has never been more important to life on Earth,” he said. The ETP focuses on advancing technology while it aims to use space for the protection of our planet. From improving weather prediction and flood monitoring to innovating in propulsion and in-orbit servicing, these projects are poised to leverage space for the betterment of our world.

Among the plethora of innovative projects, the University of Glasgow is exploring a spacecraft that can consume its own structure as fuel, potentially revolutionising access to low Earth orbit. The University of Bristol is harnessing data from the SWOT mission to enhance global flood modelling, while Oxford Dynamics is developing a long-range radar system for space debris mitigation.

Strategic Impact on the Space Economy

Professor Grahame Blair, STFC Executive Director, highlighted the strategic importance of these initiatives. “We are living through an incredibly exciting time for the UK space industry,” he remarked. The ETP is not just an investment in technology but a step towards solidifying the UK’s leadership in the space economy, promising extensive benefits for society.

A Future Shaped by Space

The ETP’s support is crucial in overcoming research and development barriers, leading to marketable space technologies that promise job creation and societal benefits. This initiative marks a significant step in the UK’s journey towards becoming a dominant force in the space sector, influencing everything from Earth observation to manned space exploration.

Space Exploration and Human Advancement

Projects funded under the ETP are diverse and impactful. The University of Southampton received £201,000 for developing a sterilisation method using non-thermal plasma, crucial for human spaceflight and exploration. Additionally, they received £102,000 for developing Raman-spectroscopy for detecting biosignatures, aiding in the exploration of icy worlds like the Moon and Mars.

Advancements in Earth Observation and Beyond

The Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics is developing both a low SWaP LiDAR instrument and room temperature photon counting detectors, receiving a total of £487,000. These advancements in light detection and imaging are set to enhance Earth observation capabilities.

Space Robotics and Communication

The University of Manchester and Imperial College London are pushing the frontiers of extra-terrestrial robotics and magnetometer systems, receiving £190,000 and £144,000, respectively. These innovations could lower the cost of space missions and expand the capabilities of space exploration.
 

Enhancing Space Weather Prediction and Surface Robotics

RAL Space and MDA Space and Robotics UK are focusing on space weather measurement and planetary surface robotics. With a combined funding of £374,000, they aim to develop a stabilised laser for space weather measurement and an efficient short-range LiDAR for surface robotics.

Investing in Solar Research and Cosmic Ray Missions

The University of Surrey and the University of Birmingham are receiving a total of £500,000 to develop technologies for solar and cosmic ray missions. These projects aim to enhance space weather predictions and satellite servicing capabilities, showcasing the UK’s commitment to addressing broader space challenges.

Supporting Rover and Sample Return Missions

The University of Leicester, with a grant of £183,000, is developing instrument boxes and sample containers for rover and sample return missions. This project is critical in advancing our understanding of space and bringing back valuable data from other celestial bodies.

Innovations in Solar Polarimetry and Astronomy

Durham University and the University of Hertfordshire are receiving £259,000 for projects in solar polarimetry and enhancing the dynamic range of imaging sensors. These advancements are set to contribute significantly to solar research and astronomy.

Sustainable and Cost-Effective Space Access

The University of Glasgow, with £540,000 funding, is focusing on additive manufacturing in simulated space environments and developing an autophage propulsion system. This innovative approach to spacecraft fuel consumption could revolutionise access to low Earth orbit.

Developing Novel Technologies for Long Missions

Teer Coatings Ltd and Oxford Dynamics are developing novel technologies for long-duration space missions. With a combined funding of £318,000, they aim to create a durable solid lubricant and a radar system for detecting objects in low Earth orbit, addressing key challenges in space exploration.

Innovating in Satellite Disposal and Flood Modelling

Newton Launch Systems and the University of Bristol, with a total funding of £400,000, are working on a nitrous oxide monopropellant thruster and utilising data for flood modelling. These projects demonstrate the UK’s commitment to sustainable space operations and applying space data for earthly benefits.

Advancing In-Orbit Refuelling and Debris Removal

Orbit Fab and the University of Strathclyde, receiving £478,000, are developing an in-orbit refuelling interface and a technique for active debris removal. These initiatives are critical in ensuring sustainable space operations and maintaining a clean space environment.

GMV, with a £250,000 grant, is developing a distributed simulation environment to validate in-orbit servicing and refuelling operations. This project represents a significant step in preparing for the complexities of future space missions.