£11m boost for Scottish space sector

Five Scottish-based technology projects are set to benefit from almost £11m worth of funding from the UK Space Agency (UKSA).   

The announcement was made by the UK’s science minister Peter Kyle on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow and is part of wider funding for projects across the UK totalling £33m.   

The projects come from the National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP), which is set up to invest in high-potential technologies and drive innovation and growth in the UK space sector.  

Two projects will receive a share of £8.5m in funding, one of which is a sub-orbital rocket test by HyImpulse, a Glasgow-based company, from the SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland.  

The other, a project led by Spire Global, also based in Glasgow, will further develop technology to supply unique weather forecasting data to global numerical weather prediction centres.  

The UK Government aims to support growth and create jobs with the new funding, and it hopes it will enhance Scotland’s offering of space capabilities and services to international and major space investors.   

Three additional projects, labelled ‘kick-starter’ projects, situated in Scotland, will also benefit from a share of £2.4m.   

These projects are designed to support technologies and applications that are in an early stage of development and improve readiness for commercial and scientific use.   

Kyle said: “From combatting climate change to staying connected with loved ones, space technologies play an important role in many aspects of our day-to-day lives.    

“But backing the growth of UK space companies is also essential for driving economic growth, boosting productivity, and creating wealth in every community.    

“Our £33m investment in these projects highlights the huge potential of the UK's space industry, especially as we collaborate with international partners.”  

Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray, who attended the Farnborough International Airshow, 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 £10.9m in funding for these five Scottish projects.”  

Dr Paul Bate, chief executive of the UKSA, 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.”