The competition, running until next spring, aims to focus on creating entire new satellite constellations, ground systems or delivering new services to customers. It will be funded through the UK Space Agency’s leading role in the European Space Agency (ESA) Advanced Research in Telecommunications Services (ARTES) programme.
Ghani, who stepped into the position of science minister within Liz Truss’ cabinet at the beginning of this month, said the funding will help “to strengthen the UK’s position as a world leader in the satellite communications market” and boost STEM skills in the UK.
“There are a series of important programmes on the table and I want to harness opportunities in space to grow the UK economy, create jobs and inspire young people into STEM careers,” she added.
The £15m fund comes as Impact Evaluation of UK Investment in the European Space Agency, found that every £1 invested in ESA generated an overall return of £11.80 for the UK economy...