Southeast Asia Information Port News (www.dnyxxg.com) – The UK Space Agency announced on the 21st that it will invest £6.9 million (approximately RMB 64.22 million) in research and development of "next-generation satellite communication technologies." The plan supports five key innovation projects, helping the UK consolidate its leading position in the European space sector while simultaneously driving related industry upgrades and economic growth.
According to reports, this investment focuses on core innovations in satellite communications, covering five major areas: satellite refueling, 5G non-terrestrial networks, lunar communication interfaces, space optical communication, and satellite service management.
Among these initiatives, Orbit Fab is developing satellite refueling technology to extend the on-orbit lifespan of electrically propelled satellites and help them avoid space threats; the Cunningham Earth Station in Cornwall will build antenna interface equipment compliant with international lunar network standards, improving the connection efficiency between lunar exploration missions and ground infrastructure, thus facilitating the smooth progress of lunar missions; Vicinity Technologies is developing 5G non-terrestrial network regenerative payload systems and user terminals to support uninterrupted and scalable internet services in remote areas and smart cities worldwide; Archangel Lightworks, in collaboration with Eurosat, is exploring the application of this technology in global low-Earth orbit satellite networks; and Inmarsat Navigation Ventures is advancing the second phase of its international virtual satellite operator network project to ensure the security of critical communications for governments worldwide.
The UK Space Agency stated that this investment aligns with the country's strategic space industry layout, covering the development of core capabilities such as satellite communications and positioning navigation. Currently, global demand for satellite communications continues to rise. Data shows that the European satellite market demand is projected to reach £40 billion (approximately RMB 372.3 billion) by 2033, and if the UK captures a 2% share, it could earn approximately £800 million (approximately RMB 7.4 billion) in revenue.
This funding comes ahead of the European Space Agency's Ministerial Council meeting, which the UK Space Agency stated will be held in Bremen from November 26th to 27th. The meeting will focus on negotiations regarding future investment in European space, with a focus on cooperation in areas such as economic growth and national security. (End)
