The United Kingdom Space Agency (UKSA) and European Space Agency (ESA) have launched a plan to build on the success of the European Center for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT).
The joint plan, unveiled during the Farnborough International Airshow, includes strengthening work on the center’s 5G/6G hub with a focus on satellite telecommunications and the wider applications of satellite services.
Furthermore, the space agencies will explore the potential for a space quantum technologies laboratory and the further development of activities related to in-orbit servicing, assembly and manufacturing – vital for improving sustainability, prolonging the lifetime of satellites in orbit, and delivering new services to businesses and citizens.
The UK Space Agency has also announced five new projects, worth £2.1 million, to help tackle key skills gaps identified by the UK space industry. As a result, the funding will boost the availability of training programs, courses and other learning interventions that can break down barriers to opportunities within this fast-growing, high-tech sector. The Universities of Edinburgh, Leicester and Portsmouth, the Royal Institute of Navigation, and Plastron Training, a specialist provider of training services focused on safety in the commercial space sector, will consequently lead the projects.
Speaking about the plans and project, UK Space Agency CEO Dr Paul Bate said, “Together with ESA, we believe there is vast potential to build on the success of the ECSAT facility in Harwell, to support even more businesses, accelerate the development of new technologies and take advantage of the UK’s wider strengths in science and innovation.”
Likewise, ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher added, “Together with the UKSA we want to build on ECSAT’s leadership role in commercial space applications and telecommunications, push forward new initiatives in high-growth areas, deliver better services to all European citizens.”
