UK Space Sector Projects Receive Funding from Enabling Technologies Programme

The UK government has announced funding for a range of projects aimed at boosting the development of new space technologies in the country. The Enabling Technologies Programme (ETP) will provide £4 million in total, with £3.2 million coming from the UK Space Agency (UKSA) and £800,000 contributed by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).

One of the largest funded projects, receiving £247,000, involves the Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics at the University of Strathclyde. This project aims to support the development of low-cost, room temperature photon counting detectors that can be used in imaging, sensing, and optical communications. The centre is also receiving £240,000 for the development of a low SWaP (size, weight, and power) light detection and ranging method (LiDAR) instrument to be mounted onto unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for Earth observation.

"We are living through an incredibly exciting time for the UK space industry," said Professor Grahame Blair, STFC Executive Director, Programmes. "Thanks to initiatives such as the Enabling Technologies Programme, our space scientists are continually pushing the frontiers of Earth observation, satellite communications, and even manned space exploration, with untold benefits to society. STFC is proud to partner with the UK Space Agency to support the UK space science community and help solidify the UK’s position as a world leader in the space economy."

The Enabling Technologies Programme has funded a total of 23 projects. Some of the other projects include:

University of Southampton (£201,000) – Development of a sterilisation method using non-thermal plasma to support human spaceflight and exploration.

University of Manchester (£190,000) – Development of alternative motion techniques for extra-terrestrial robotics, supporting future rover and exploration missions.

Imperial College London (£144,000) – Development of a new approach for magnetometer systems that reduces the need for booms on a spacecraft, helping to lower the cost of space science missions.

MDA Space and Robotics (£147,000) – Development of a novel laser sensor to make complex, vision-based missions possible in poor illumination conditions.

These projects, along with others funded by the Enabling Technologies Programme, aim to advance various aspects of space technology and exploration, from sterilization methods for human spaceflight to the development of new motion techniques for robotics. The UK government's investment in these projects demonstrates its commitment to fostering innovation and maintaining the country's position as a leader in the space industry.