The UK Space Agency has announced millions in funding for space tech projects including an in-orbit farm and AI for space operations.
The agency, sponsored by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), has awarded funding to 11 projects across the UK to encourage advanced research and international collaboration in space tech.
Among those projects is the development of an autonomous environmental agriculture facility in space. The “space farm” project, from London-based agtech startup Vertical Future and the University of Cambridge, has been granted £1.5m
The project will also be worked on by international partners including the University of Adelaide, the University of Western Australia, the University of Southern Queensland, the South Australian Space Industry Centre, Saber Astronautics and Axiom Space in the US.
Other projects include a University of Strathclyde-led plan to apply AI to space operations, a team from Rolls-Royce Submarines testing nuclear power for the space industry and the Open University and partners developing ultra-high-resolution imaging for celestial bodies.
“The UK is home to some of the brightest minds in space science, aerospace engineering and an entrepreneurial commercial space sector,” said UK Science Minister Andrew Griffith. “It’s no wonder the world wants to collaborate with Britain when it comes to space.”
This is the second phase of investment awarded through the Bilateral Fund. The first phase funded 32 projects with up to £75,000 each and the opportunity to receive further funding down the line.
“The projects supported by our International Bilateral Fund champion the best of British innovation, while strengthening our ties with the wider space community,” said UK Space Agency CEO Dr Paul Bate.
“Together we can break new ground, further our understanding of the Universe and use the vast power of space to protect and benefit lives on Earth.”
The Bilateral Fund has also received funding from the Australian Space Agency, which provided AUS$3m (£1.5m).
Last month, the UK Space Agency announced it would open a new HQ in Harwell, Oxfordshire, along with regional offices in Scotland, Wales and the Midlands.
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