UK pumps £16 million into new projects to boost satellite communications

The UK has invested 16 million pounds in two new projects in order to benefit more from satellite constellations and communications.

According to a press release on 3 February, the investment made through the UK Space Agency is aimed at developing technology that improves the UK’s efficiency and capability.

to capture a greater portion of the satellite mega-constellation market.

Over the next four years, the Connectivity in Low Earth Orbit (C-LEO) program through which the funding came, will invest up to £160 million in UK expertise in this area.

The UK heading for space leadership

The UK is working hard to become a leader in some key areas, one of which is space exploration.

As satellite constellations are enhancing global connectivity by providing high-speed internet access to remote and underserved areas, the country seeks to have a good share of the industry as it transforms markets in maritime and aviation connectivity.

Commenting on the investment, Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant said:

“The UK has all the cutting edge expertise and technology to spearhead the latest advancements in satellite communications and become a leader in this high-tech industry. These Government backed projects will not only provide significant advancements in mobile communication, but help to bridge the digital divide, connecting communities in the most hard-to-reach areas.”

The current round of funding goes to two companies, including Oxfordshire’s EnSilica plc, which will receive £10 million to develop novel silicon chips and software for a user terminal.

Secondly, Excelerate Technology Ltd in Cardiff will receive £6 million to develop the small and flexible Mobility and Autonomy Market User Terminal (MAMUT). This will allow users to choose the operator and orbit via an app, reducing costs and enhancing global configurability.

Already, the UK has made much progress in space exploration. It attained a record successful launch of more than 2,900 satellites into space, with many of the satellites being part of commercial constellations.

By 2031, it is expected to have launched 18,000 satellites from 2021, with mega-constellations comprising 75% of this total.

Supporting the EU

Apart from working to be ahead in space technology, the UK has also played a critical role in the EU.

It is a founding member of the European Space Agency (ESA) which is set to build a secure communication network for the government in space, in collaboration with the European Commission.