A plan to build on the success of the European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT), which employs over 100 people in Harwell, was launched today by the UK and European space agencies.
The joint plan, unveiled at the Farnborough International Airshow, aims to expand ECSAT’s capabilities, particularly its 5G/6G hub, emphasizing satellite telecommunications and broader satellite service applications, which already contribute around £360 billion to the UK GDP.
The agencies will also explore the potential for establishing a space quantum technologies lab and advancing in-orbit servicing, assembly, and manufacturing initiatives. These advancements are critical for sustainability, extending satellite lifespans, and delivering new services to both businesses and the public.
Addressing Skills Gaps with New Initiatives
In addition, the UK Space Agency announced five new projects, valued at £2.1 million, targeting key skills shortages within the UK space industry. This funding will support training programs, courses, and other educational initiatives, opening up more opportunities in this high-growth sector.
The projects will be led by the universities of Edinburgh, Leicester, and Portsmouth, the Royal Institute of Navigation, and Plastron Training, a provider of training services with a focus on commercial space sector safety.
Comments from Industry Leaders
UK Space Agency CEO, Dr. Paul Bate, commented:
“As a founding member of the European Space Agency, UK scientists and engineers contribute to global scientific and commercial space endeavors, furthering human knowledge and bringing the benefits of space technologies to citizens on Earth.
“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 strengths in science and innovation.
“As space is a growing industry, we are also taking concrete steps to improve the availability of dedicated training programmes, which will help address skills gaps identified by the sector.”
ESA Director General, Josef Aschbacher, added:
“ECSAT is ESA’s home in the UK and a vital facility for ESA’s overall space ambitions. Together with the UK Space Agency, 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, and grow our UK-based workforce to 200 people by 2030.
“I’ve enjoyed the Farnborough International Airshow and met with many current and potential future partners with whom we will work to make this shared vision a reality.”
