Space is the final frontier, according to Star Trek, and the Government is planning to boldly go into battle to put the UK at the heart of space research and development.
Satellites orbiting the Earth keep us connected through our phones and streaming TV channels, are key in defence and security, and allow us to navigate, as well as monitor the climate and weather.
Now the Government has set out an ambitious plan, The National Space Strategy, that will help cement their ambition to have the UK at the heart of global research and development.
The space sector is a vital part of the economy, worth over £16.4 billion per year and employing over 45,000 people across the UK with the global space economy projected to grow from an estimated £270 billion in 2019 to £490 billion by 2030.
These people are in highly skilled jobs – from space scientists and researchers to engineers and satellite manufacturers. The National Space Strategy looks to harness these strengths and support British companies to seize future opportunities.
The new strategy targets four key areas to support their plan for space development:
- Unlocking growth in the space sector
- Collaborating internationally
- Growing the UK as a science and technology superpower
- Developing resilient space capabilities and services
Who will be involved?
British firms will be key partners as the strategy aims to empower businesses to innovate and grow by unlocking private finance while positioning the UK at the forefront of international space research.
This will be through initiatives like supporting the first British spaceport satellite launch due in 2022 or leading international space missions that help tackle global challenges such as climate change.
The strategy will bring together the UK Government and British companies to combat hostile forces and emerging international threats such as cyber-attacks while protecting UK interests at home and abroad.
UK firms at cutting edge of technology
It also sets out how the Government will build on the UK’s strengths in space including satellite manufacturing and communications while working with UK firms at the cutting edge of the latest advances in space technologies.
The strategy outlines how the UK can establish global leadership in high-growth areas, such as satellite broadband operations, building on the Government’s recent investment in OneWeb, while also focusing on new and emerging markets like in-orbit servicing and space debris removal.
Through research and development (R&D), the Government says it aims to inspire the next generation and sustain the UK’s competitive edge in space science and technology.
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