UK Space Agency Seeks Tech and Science Projects for Commercial Space Mission Funding
The UK Space Agency is seeking technology and science projects to fly onboard a potential commercial mission. This follows preparations for an agreement with Axiom Space, a US company that facilitates visits to the International Space Station (ISS), with the goal of launching a British astronaut mission, potentially to the ISS. However, the £15mn (€17.5mn) funding will depend on the mission’s actual progress.
Annelies Look, Deputy CEO of the UK Space Agency, stated, “We want to keep the UK space sector at the forefront of scientific discovery and technological innovation, so this has been front and centre of our work with Axiom Space since October.”
Why This Matters
The UK is looking for technology demonstrators that can aid in exploration and test innovative solutions in a space environment. Specifically, projects related to AI, engineering biology, future telecommunications, semiconductors, and quantum technologies are sought after. Additionally, the agency is looking for solutions that align with its tech roadmap, which prioritizes advanced manufacturing, in-situ resource utilization, life support, and crew performance.
Interested candidates have until April 29 to apply, and successful projects must commence by June 2024, with the development process to last 18 months.
t/f Summary: Diversifying Space
The UK is heavily investing in space tech, aiming to capitalize on the growing commercialization of space exploration and the global space economy, projected to reach $1tn (€897bn) by 2040. In addition to public funding, the country has attracted significant private investment. According to VC firm Seraphim, the UK nearly doubled its total year-on-year investment to $326mn (€301.7mn) in the third quarter of 2023.
Moreover, the UK seeks to become the first in Western Europe to host vertical rocket launches and is home to multiple startups driving innovation in the space sector, including Open Cosmos and Space Forge.