In a ground-breaking move for the UK’s space sector, the UK Space Agency is boosting space technologies with new funding. The investment is aimed at enhancing the capabilities of solar-powered spacecraft and developing new propulsion systems, marking a significant stride forward in the industry.
“This is the first round of investment from the UK Space Agency’s Enabling Technologies Programme, part of the National Space Innovation Programme dedicated to supporting UK companies breaking ground in technologies to enhance spaceflight capabilities,” states the UK Space Agency in its recent press release.
A total of £2.1 million is being divided among nine projects, with plans for additional rounds of UK Space Agency funding set for the future.
UK Space Agency Fuels Space Technologies
Craig Brown, UK Space Agency Director of Investment, elucidates:
“By supporting innovations in emerging and new areas of space technology, such as space-based solar power, extreme ultraviolet Integral Field Spectroscopy, electrothermal propulsion and more, we ensure that the UK stays at the forefront of global advances in space.”
The Funding Projects and their Contributions
Several academic institutions and organizations are set to benefit from this investment. One of the recipients includes Wales-based Space Forge’s Project Helios, which aims to develop a retractable solar array in partnership with Microlink Devices. This innovation is intended to power returnable spacecraft and enable in-orbit servicing to prolong the life of other satellites in space.
Space-based Solar Power: A New Frontier for UK Space Agency
Space-based solar power is one of the primary areas receiving a significant boost from this round of UK Space Agency funding. The approach could significantly transform the efficiency and sustainability of space missions, offering a greener alternative for powering spacecraft.
The Importance of In-orbit Servicing
In-orbit servicing plays a vital role in ensuring the longevity and optimal functioning of spacecraft. Initiatives like the electro-thermal propulsion system being developed by the Surrey Space Centre, University of Surrey, and Space Forge’s retractable solar array are likely to greatly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of these services.
Integral Field Spectrograph: A Step Forward in Astrophysics
Durham University is also a beneficiary of this funding, as they are set to explore image slicer technology in the extreme ultraviolet (EUV) for the development of the first-ever EUV integral field spectrograph. This technology could revolutionize our observations of the Sun and advance high energy astrophysics.
The Future for UK Space Agency Solar Projects
The UK Space Agency’s commitment to backing new technologies in the space sector is paving the way for unprecedented advancements. As we look forward to seeing the outcomes of these projects, it’s clear that the future of the UK’s space industry is set to reach new heights, making it an exciting time for the field.
What do you think of the UK’s commitment to investing in space technologies? Let us know in the comments below.