Founded in 2011, one of the first players in the New Space market, D-Orbit are building a space logistics infrastructure that will enable service providers to streamline satellite launch, across-orbit transportation, on-orbit servicing and refueling, and end of mission disposal.
Space West - October 2024
News from the Cluster
Welcome to the October edition of our Space West Newsletter. With each newsletter, we aim to share the most recent discoveries, advancements, and stories from the world of Space in the South West.
About Space West
Space West is a regional consortium of academic and industry partners designed to accelerate growth and innovation in the space sector within the region and nationally. The Space West programme is hosted by the National Composites Centre, in partnership with West of England Combined Authority, the Centre for Modelling and Simulation, the University of Bath, the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England.
Space West Regional Map
Bath to Host Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) Plenary Workshop and Youth Summit in November 2025
UK Space Agency announced last week that UK Space Agency Chief Executive Dr Paul Bate has assumed the Chair of the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS), the international body responsible for coordinating observations of the Earth from space.
The UK’s priority will be to unlock the power of Earth observation from space to benefit society, from improving public services to inspiring the next generation with a Youth Summit in Bath in November 2025.
The UK Space Agency’s role as CEOS Chair will be to oversee the activities of CEOS and ensure it is achieving the objectives of its work plan. The UK Space Agency has proposed four priorities to champion data-driven solutions for major global challenges over the 12-month period as Chair, within the theme of ‘Unlocking Earth Observation for Society’:
- Using Earth observation to improve public services.
- Increasing use of space data in the Global Stocktakes of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
- Supporting development of Methane emissions measurement best-practices.
- Inspiring the next generation through a new ‘CEOS in Schools’ initiative.
As Chair, an early task will be to represent CEOS on the global stage and promote its goals and objectives, starting at next month’s COP-29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, and continuing throughout 2025.
Space West Governance Workshop
Space West has been operational since June 2023, building on the Wests of England Space Hub, Space West has grown to over 200 members, having held 13 events with over 800 attendees, and supported over 90 businesses and 21 proposals resulting in over £5.7M worth of funding. The work has built a strong community across the region with some clear priorities that build on the strengths and capabilities in the region.
As Space West moves into its next phase, and to deliver more for the region and businesses, we need to refine the governance so that it strengthens the industrial voice and define new structures that allow us to build on our priority themes. To this end we worked in partnership with the Satellite Applications Catapult to hold our first Space West governance workshop.
The group defined what success would look like in each of the areas, set goals, prioritised activities that would move the cluster, its structure and governance into the next phase so that Space West can do more to serve the businesses in the region.
Thank you to all of those who joined us for the day, the energy and enthusiasm in the room reflects the passion there is for space in our region and I am looking forwards to harnessing this to move the cluster forwards into its next phase. If you are interested in getting involved, drop a line to Space West cluster manager Becky Huffee.
University of Bristol’s Rocketry Success
Soaring success for BristolSEDS : Space Exploration Society
Kudos to University of Bristol's Team Blackbird for claiming the top spot at the Mach 2024 competition!
Each year, university teams from across the UK gather at Machrihanish Air Base, Scotland, to put their design and build skills to the ultimate test by launching their own rockets. The Discover Space UK competition gives students an incredible opportunity to get hands-on within university facilities, putting their mechanical and electrical engineering skills to the test.
The key to Team Blackbird’s success was their handmade fibreglass airframe built to minimise mass. Their 2.7m rocket, weighing 16kg, reached an astonishing 2255m, hitting speeds of 1029 km/h.
Next up, HyPower Bristol are gearing up for the European rocketry challenge in October, where they’ll be competing with Bristol’s first-ever liquid-engine rocket!
University of Bristol to lead the way in making future digital infrastructures cyber secure
A new University of Bristol programme, which kicked off last month, will address the grand challenge of providing cyber security at societal scale has received £6.8 million funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
The SCULI (Securing Convergent Ultra-large Scale Infrastructures) programme brings together researchers from the Universities of Bristol (lead), Oxford, and Lancaster, who will work with partners across industry, policy and beyond, as well as drawing on their own state-of-the-art lab facilities.
The UK is the third most targeted country in the world for cyber-attacks, after the US and Ukraine, according to the House of Commons inquiry into Cyber Resilience of UK’s Critical National Infrastructure. From smart buildings, connected cities, smart farming and our critical national infrastructure (power, water, transport), the pace of change in digital technologies is increasing and so too is our dependence on them. As this increases, so does the risk of cyber attacks and large scale disruptions to infrastructures on which we rely every day.
The SCULI programme will draw on a unique mix of expertise, spanning sociotechnical approaches, theoretical and applied computer science, to transform the way we conceptualise and deliver cyber security in a world with connectivity at unprecedented scale, prevalence of legacy and non-legacy systems, complex technology stacks, complicated supply chains and myriad intersections of humans and technologies.
UKSA to support the next generation of UK PhD rocket engineers
A project at the University of Bristol, in partnership with Airborne Engineering, aims to apply Reinforcement Learning (RL) to the active control of rockets for both terrestrial and extraterrestrial applications. Building on the university’s expertise in drone flight control, this research will develop adaptable RL-based control systems for reusable rockets, extending their application to lunar and Martian challenges.
Unlocking Space For Business
The Unlocking Space for Investment (USI) Team is excited to announce the launch of the UKSA Business Pathway of our Unlocking Space for Investment programme that will support UK businesses in the space sector preparing for series A+ institutional investment.
This is following a successful pilot programme last year.
USI would like to invite you to take part in an exclusive, fully-funded programme, supporting space sector businesses / businesses looking to move into the space sector. To make the most of this opportunity, apply in just 10 minutes here.
What is the USI Business Pathway Programme?
This programme will help you; craft the right materials to get you pitch ready, develop skills in how to position and pitch your business to an investor, network with investors who are ready to invest in seed-series B businesses and set you up to secure future investment. This includes:
- 4x three hour Virtual Masterclasses providing space-centric materials on topics such as being investor ready, finance and due diligence, market sizing and valuations, Deal execution, preparing for exit and pitch deck development
- 2x four hour In-person workshops offering insight into effectively leading your business through the investment process from sales to investor negotiations, recruiting space talent and pitch preparation
- 1:1 coaching surgeries giving you exclusive access to a broad range of subject matter experts from corporate finance to commercial strategy to answer questions related to your business
- An immersive pitch day giving you the opportunity to present your business to a group of institutional investors who are ready to invest in the space sector
When does it start?
Two cohorts will be running which will last for seven weeks each. You will join either the first or the second cohort.
- The first cohort will commence on 7th October 2024 and,
- The second cohort will commence on 6th January 2025
How to apply
If you are interested in joining this programme and unlocking investment opportunities in the space sector, please use the following link to apply. For more information please visit the Unlocking Space for Investment launch page here.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to the USI team at [email protected] if you have any questions or visit their website for more information.
Research in Focus...
University of Bath academics help to find missing link in lightening formation -Gamma-Rays from Thunderclouds Discovered
Explore academic research happening right here in the region. Stay informed about the latest advancements and contributions from our local scientific and engineering community.
New research into the causes of lightning strikes, which could lead to better understanding and real-time forecasting of thunderstorms in the future, has been released today.
Two studies published in Nature conclude that gamma ray generation from thunderstorms may be more common and take more forms than previously thought.
The papers detail the discovery of flickering gamma-ray flashes, or FGFs, a type of ionising radiation emissions produced by lightning – and establishes that gamma rays emitted by thunderclouds are much more common, complex, diverse and dynamic than previously thought.
Dr Martin Fullekrug, a Reader in the Bath’s Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, says: “The precise factors that initiate lightning strikes have until now remained an enigma. The results of this study are a massive step forward in recognising the role of ionising radiation at the very early stages of lightning initiation.
“Over time, and with further research and better, targeted instrumentation, it could help us to improve on early warnings for lightning protection.”
Two different hard radiation phenomena have so far been known to originate from thunderclouds: high intensity bursts known as terrestrial gamma-ray flashes (TGFs) and less intense, but longer-duration gamma-ray glows. The characteristics of these emissions and how they are produced are not fully understood.
FGFs are a third phenomenon that bridges between the two, while at the same time revealing certain distinct characteristics, and may have a role in lightning initiation. Most noteworthy is that FGFs are pulses of gamma-rays which do not coincide with any detectable optical or radio signals.
Opportunities
Stay up to date with the latest grants and funding support available in the space industry. Propel your projects and research to new heights!
Would you welcome professional and practical learning for you as a sector specialist?
A new Executive development opportunity is now available for Defence and Space sector personnel, with your requirements specifically in mind.
The University of Exeter is pleased to be part of the Global Executive MBA (Defence and Space) (GEMBA) partnership, working alongside the University of South Australia (UniSA) and Carnegie Mellon USA, to deliver an innovative approach to supporting current and future leaders in Global Defence and Space.
Defence Technology Exploitation Programme (DSTEP)
Run by the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) aims to inspire companies to win new business, develop industrial capabilities, and provide new cutting-edge answers to defence problems at home and abroad, ensuring the UK expands its competitive, pioneering and world-class defence and security industries. The £16 million programme is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the UK to develop innovative materials, technologies and processes, and to enhance defence supply chains.
ESA Space Solutions - Commercial Applications of Space-Enabled Robotics
This funding call consists of 6 sub-themes, each open at a different point in time. Please see the list of currently open or upcoming funding calls and their further specific details below:
- Smart Cities and Infrastructure: 7 March 2024 – 7 May 2024
- Transportation and Logistics: 26 April 2024 – 26 June 2024
- Energy and Utilities: 23 May - 23 July 2024
- Health and Safety: 17 July - 17 September 2024
- Maritime and Marine: 23 September - 23 November 2024
- Agriculture: Opening October 2024
Made Smarter West of England
West of England Combined Authority are supporting businesses in the region to explore the benefits from the implementation of digital technologies. Providing access to grant funding, bespoke expertise and guidance for your business as well as skills and training.
European Space Agency
The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its mission is to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.
Defence and Security Accelerator
The Defence and Security Accelerator find and fund exploitable innovation to support UK defence and security quickly and effectively. Check it out for open calls for funding.
Core Competitiveness
ESA's ARTES Core Competitiveness programme helps European and Canadian industry to develop innovative satcom products, services, systems and partnerships.
South West Investment Fund (SWIF)
The South West Investment Fund is the first in a series of new Nations and Regions Investment Funds being launched by the British Business Bank, and it will deliver a £200 million commitment of new funding to the area. The fund aims to drive sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation and creating local opportunity for new and growing businesses across the South West.
Space-related R&D, innovation and education
Details on open funding opportunities from the UK Space Agency, the space sector, academic, education and community partners.
- Exploration Science working group support
- ARTES: Invitations To Tender (ESA Workplan Activities)
- Navigation Innovation Support Programme (NavISP)
- Student support: ESA microgravity programmes
- Responsive Mode Call - Exploration Community Development
- General Support Technology Programme (GSTP)
National Cyber Security Centre
Opportunities for secondments at NCSC advisor roles for Radio Frequency security and Private Critical National Infrastructure secondments.
Investor Partnerships Future Economy
A three-year initiative to boost Future Economy-focused SMEs through aligning grant funding for R&D development with investment from partnerships with credible investor partners
Events
Check out our events section to stay informed about upcoming conferences, workshops and networking opportunities in the region. Connect, learn and grow with the best in the field!
Space tech Expo: 19 - 21 November 2024
Space Tech Expo Europe is Europe’s largest B2B event for the space industry. At the show, you can expect to see a variety of space technologies used in manufacturing processes.
Rebecca Huffee, Space West Cluster Manager, will there on behalf of Space West.
Reinventing Space Conference - 11-13 November 2024
Organised by the British Interplanetary Society, Reinventing Space is a conference and exhibition dedicated to advancing humanity’s future capabilities in space and highlights the trends that will define space enterprise a decade from now. Each year, the conference brings together a network of innovators from industry, agency, government, financiers, academia and end users to present and discuss the key challenges and opportunities for future space leadership and growth.
40th International Symposium on Remote Sensing of Environment (ISRSE) - 17-21 March 2025
Farnborough International Space Show 2025 will see a new look Farnborough Space show and Space West can offer our cluster members the chance to share a stand at a much-reduced price. The event is taking place between 19-20 March 2025 at Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre, and the event connects the global space community across industry, defence, government and academia.
It offers you the chance to meet with senior decision makers and active buyers across the space ecosystem. Please visit the brochure attached to find out more about the event. Exhibitor opportunity – Cost is £1,000 dependent on us getting a minimum of 4 businesses involved. If interested please email Rebecca Huffee [email protected]
Space West Event - 28 November 2024
Venue to TBC.
For those registered with Space West, look out in your emails for a link to sign up! If you're not registered with Space West for news and updates, use the link below.
Reinventing Space Conference - 11-13 November 2024
Organised by the British Interplanetary Society, each year, the conference brings together a network of innovators from industry, agency, government, financiers, academia and end users to present and discuss the key challenges and opportunities for future space leadership and growth.
Farnborough International Space Show - 19-20 March 2025
Farnborough International Space Show 2025 will see a new look Farnborough Space show and Space West can offer our cluster members the chance to share a stand at a much-reduced price. The event is taking place between 19-20 March 2025 at Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre, and the event connects the global space community across industry, defence, government and academia. It offers you the chance to meet with senior decision makers and active buyers across the space ecosystem.
Please visit the brochure attached to find out more about the event. Exhibitor opportunity – Cost is £1,000 dependent on us getting a minimum of 4 businesses involved. If interested please email Rebecca Huffee [email protected]
Jobs in the Space West Region
Looking for your next career move in the space industry? Explore our jobs section to find exciting opportunities right here in the region. From engineering roles to business development, your dream job in space awaits!
Various roles - D-Orbit
D-Orbit is the market leader in space logistics and transportation, with a track record of space-proven technologies and successful missions.
Various roles - iCOMAT
ICOMAT is an ambitious advanced manufacturing company with game changing technology and critically people with the imagination and drive to grow a business that will enable leading OEMs in the Aeronautics, Automotive Space and Defence sectors to significantly reduce the weight and improve the performance and efficiency of their vehicles & products.
Various roles - Starion UK
Starion UK, now headquartered in Bath, is keen to recruit the best expertise to deliver space segment and ground segment systems and studies. Whilst there is not currently a recruitment campaign underway, we welcome CV’s from those seeking roles in these areas.
Space Forge
Space Forge is extraordinarily diverse team of incredibly talented people dedicated to making returnable, reusable orbital factories a reality. From our team lunches to our team ownership, Space Forge is building the company others aspire theirs to be. So if you’ve got the right stuff (and really know your stuff), then why wait?
Magdrive
Looking for a new opportunity and would like to join one of the UK’s most exciting space startups?
Linked are current vacancies with Magdrive. If there isn’t anything that is a perfect fit for you and you would like to make a speculative enquiry, then please send your CV to [email protected]
Space West 2024 Activity Page
Stay connected and witness our exciting endeavors throughout the year. Explore upcoming events, collaborative initiatives, and engaging projects.
Published date: 31/10/2024