Five projects funded by the UK Space Agency across Scotland were announced on Monday during the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, providing over £10.5 million in Scottish investment.
The projects come from the National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP) – designed to invest in high-potential technologies and drive innovation and growth in the space sector across the UK.
Two Scottish projects will receive £8.5 million of the total funding for UK Major Projects. These include funding for a sub-orbital rocket test by HyImpulse of Glasgow from SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland.
A project led by Spire Global of Glasgow will further develop technology to supply unique weather forecasting data to global numerical weather prediction centres.
Not only will the funding support the growth of UK space businesses and create new jobs, but it will enhance Scotland’s offering of space capabilities and services to international investors and major space players.
An additional three “Kick Starter” projects across Scotland will receive £2.4 million between them. These projects are designed to support technologies and applications that are in an earlier stage of development and increase their readiness for use in commercial and scientific endeavours.
These projects include a partnership between University of Strathclyde, UK Atomic Energy Authority and SJE Space, for a feasibility study into whether terrestrial directed energy drilling (plasmas/microwaves) could be adapted for space applications, specifically lunar exploration.
Speaking at the Farnborough International Airshow where he met with a number of Scottish exhibitors, the UK government’s Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: “This is an exciting time for the Scottish space sector as we look forward to the first satellite launch from SaxaVord in Shetland later this year.
“The burgeoning industry plays a vital role in our economy and employs thousands of people across the country. It was fantastic to meet with some of them here and hear about their pioneering plans which could be a key driver for growth, jobs and investment in Scotland.
“Scotland is a major player in the international space industry and I am delighted the UK Government is continuing to back the sector with £10.9 million in funding for these five Scottish projects.”
UK Space Agency CEO Paul Bate 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.”