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 - Winter 2024
News from the Cluster
Welcome to the Winter 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
News Scientists’ ‘next-generation’ space materials blast off for tests on ISS
Innovative materials could be used for space bases and interplanetary travel
A new generation of space materials left Earth this morning as they head to the International Space Station (ISS) to undergo testing in the brutal conditions of low Earth orbit.
Developed at the University of Bristol, these high-performance materials could be used to build future space stations, spacecraft for interplanetary travel or a new ISS.
They will be placed on the Bartolomeo platform, located on the front of the ISS, where they will orbit Earth up to 9,000 times over the next 12 to 18 months at speeds of 17,000 mph.
The carbon fibre reinforced composites will need to survive temperatures between -150ºC and +120ºC, space debris travelling seven times faster than a bullet, severe electromagnetic radiation, high vacuum and atomic oxygen, which erodes even the toughest materials.
Prof Ian Hamerton, Professor of Polymers and Sustainable Composites in the University of Bristol’s world-leading Bristol Composites Institute, said:
“Space is the most challenging environment for which to design new materials. You’re pitting your materials expertise, skills and ingenuity against extremes of temperature, mechanical stress, radiation, high speed impacts and more.
“Any one of those might be difficult, and, unfortunately, gaining access to repair them is not an easy option, so the materials we build must survive without maintenance.
“The opportunity to test our materials in the proving ground of space is priceless and will help our University of Bristol scientists on the ground improve fibre-reinforced materials for next-generation space missions.”
There are four laboratory-made polymers heading to the ISS, each of which has been reinforced with carbon fibres and two contain nanoparticles. All four are the result of University of Bristol research and one is patented.
If the materials cope in the harsh environment, they could be used to create longer-lasting space components, allowing spacecraft to travel further, and spend more time in space.
Future communities on new planets will need protection against galactic cosmic radiation. Dr Ali Kandemir, Senior Research Associate at the University of Bristol, is one of several Bristol researchers, supported by the UK Space Agency (UKSA), examining the effects of simulated galactic cosmic radiation on the materials, in a European Space Agency (ESA) project.
Dr Kandemir said: “We want materials that are resilient in the space environment and, importantly, materials that can shield humans from that radiation.
“We also want to make these materials sustainable, so that when they reach the end of their life they can be recycled and used again for the same purpose.”
The launch of the Space X Dragon CRS-2 spacecraft this morning is the culmination of five years of work for Prof Hamerton and his team.
It has included the efforts of early career researchers, postgraduates and several Aerospace Engineering undergraduates at the University of Bristol, whose final year research projects have been linked to the space materials project.
The practical support of the University of Bristol-hosted National Composites Centre (NCC) was crucial to the scale up of the composite materials.
Prof Kate Robson Brown, Vice-President for Research, Innovation and Impact at University College Dublin, and a collaborator on the project, said:
“After nearly five years of research to develop novel composite materials for space applications it is very exciting to see our experiment launch to the International Space Station.
“I am proud to be part of this mission, and to be working with the multidisciplinary and multisector research team to deliver integrated real world and digital testing for innovative materials which will help to drive growth in the new space economy.
“This mission also demonstrates how space research funding creates career changing opportunities for early career researchers and PhD students in a sector of huge value to both Ireland and the UK.”
Funding to support the project was supplied by the ESA, the UKSA, Oxford Space Systems and others.
The University of Bristol’s MSc in Advanced Composites is based at the BCI.
CFMS wins bid for ESA Large AI and Robotics Space Simulator (LARS Sim)
CFMS announced this month that they have been awarded a pioneering innovation contract from the European Space Agency to deliver Large AI & Robotics Space Simulation (LARS Sim), a next-generation simulation platform set to accelerate space mission development with breakthrough capabilities.
As space exploration advances, future missions increasingly depend on sophisticated, complex ConOps scenarios often including robotics, AI and intelligent systems. LARS Sim tackles one of the biggest challenges – creating highly realistic, data centre-enabled simulators that can handle thousands of high-fidelity scenes to support advanced concept development, verification, and validation of complex missions and autonomous systems.
What sets LARS Sim apart is its ability to leverage data centre-powered multi-scene and multi-view rendering, combined with AI-driven tools. To help small, expert teams manage the enormous volume of scenes generated, the fully developed concept will utilise Deep Learning-based AI techniques that simplify scene distribution and streamline assessments, ensuring rapid, high-quality insights.
This contract is the first phase, carried out as a part of ESA’s GSTP programme which aims to de-risk key enablers by redefining how mission concepts progress from ideas to operational reality using advanced techniques. We’re excited to be leading this change-making innovation in the space sector. Stay tuned for updates as we take this journey with ESA to shape the future of mission simulation and accelerate the path to space.
Dr Mark Woods, CSO at CFMS said: “We’re at a pivotal moment in the space industry, where bold ambition demands pioneering tools to keep pace. LARS Sim is a critical first step in meeting this need – accelerating advanced innovations to transform how we bring complex missions to life from concept to operational success.”
Events Roundup
We Boldly go together….to Bremen, Robotics and Intelligent Systems & Space West Networking at NCC
We have had a busy month with events this November.
We led off with taking a delegation of over 30 businesses from across the South West to Space Tech Expo, Bremen as part of the South West Space Partnership. The South West Space Partnership is a partnership between Invest Bristol and Bath, Space West and Cornwall Space Cluster – aimed at securing Inward Investment into the region.
Day 1: We kicked off with an impactful networking evening, connecting South West businesses with broader UK clusters and international partners.
It featured talks from Matthew Archer (UK Space Agency), Gail Eastaugh (Cornwall Space Cluster), Rebecca Huffee (SpaceWest), and withZacharias Bowen (Invest Bristol & Bath) - setting the tone for collaboration and innovation.
Day 2: Was full of B2B meetings, highlighting the South West’s aerospace and advanced engineering sector and our leading role in space innovation.
Day 3: The event concluded with the UK Space Ecosystem Breakfast, hosted by the Department for Business and Trade and the UK Space Agency. This session highlighted the South West’s emergence as the UK’s third-largest space cluster and its accelerating growth.
As the biggest Space Expo in Europe it was great to see the focus on getting business done- this meant that our delegation came away with contracts, leads and NDAs in place to drive opportunities into the future.
Next up we had an event focused on how the South West could leverage its strengths in robotics and intelligent systems to disrupt and accelerate mission life cycles ‘To Boldly Go Together’. Mark Woods, CSO and Head of RAS, CFMS and chair of the panel summarised his reflections:
‘A huge thank you to our fabulous panel, Sally Mortimore Doherty (Graphcore), Antonia Tzemanaki (BRL, University of Bristol, Simon Reid (D-Orbit), Ryan Page (Ultrleap), Lucy P.(TechSpark), our very engaged audience, and our hosts,Andy ReedandWest of England Combined Authority, for making the event so productive. We all learned a great deal from each other, and the discussion highlighted the importance of:
· A compelling narrative and vision for a regional mission (in the space sense of the word) that is clear, authentic, and easily understood, with benefits clearly articulated
· The immense potential of robotics and Intelligent Systems technology, both in this region and beyond
· The ongoing need for other voices and Cross-Sector learning – a key theme of the evening
· Providing an accessible front door for non-space businesses
· The value of an integrated ecosystems, where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, but one that requires a shared mission to coalesce around
· A commitment to fail fast, iterative learning, and…
· Leveraging facilities and new types of tools and digital simulation capabilities to enable that positive disruption
· The importance of the rightleadership, culture and organisational makeup
· And, last but certainly not least, being clear on the commercial rationale and larger 'why' behind our mission
We’ll be following up on the various points discussed above and look forward to advancing the key themes of the conversation at NY25.’
Finally we rounded out the year with a final Space West Networking event hosted by the National Composites Centre. We heard from Alex Hale and Konstantina Kanari about how the NCC can support businesses in the space sector as well as connecting up international stakeholders with our regional community. A great note to finish the year- thanks to all those that joined us!
Space Projects
Matching Students and Industry
In the final or penultimate year of their degree, students have to complete a lengthy individual project, and space-related topics are rarely available.
Space Projects UK provide the framework for students to do their project remotely with a space organisation, and advertise projects proposed by space organisations to students nationwide on a rolling basis.
The space sector is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK. Employers, however, often highlight a lack of skilled graduates, and students, a lack of opportunities to get experience.
This scheme has been created to give students this crucial experience, and has been designed upon feedback from several academics, space industry professionals, and students.
Research in Focus
University of Bristol and UKAEA collaborate to make C-14 diamond batteries for space a reality
Scientists and engineers from the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and the University of Bristol have successfully created the world’s first carbon-14 diamond battery.
This new type of battery has the potential to power devices for thousands of years, making it an incredibly long-lasting energy source.
The battery leverages the radioactive isotope, carbon-14, known for its use in radiocarbon dating, to produce a diamond battery.
Several game-changing applications are possible. Bio-compatible diamond batteries can be used in medical devices like ocular implants, hearing aids, and pacemakers, minimising the need for replacements and distress to patients.
Diamond batteries could also be used in extreme environments – both in space and on earth – where it is not practical to replace conventional batteries. The batteries could power active radio frequency (RF) tags where there is a need to identify and track devices either on earth or in space, such as spacecraft or payloads, for decades at a time, thus reducing costs and extending operational lifespan.
“Diamond batteries offer a safe, sustainable way to provide continuous microwatt levels of power. They are an emerging technology that use a manufactured diamond to safely encase small amounts of carbon-14,” said Sarah Clark, Director of Tritium Fuel Cycle at UKAEA.
The carbon-14 diamond battery works by using the radioactive decay of carbon-14, which has a half-life of 5,700 years, to generate low levels of power. It functions similarly to solar panels, which convert light into electricity, but instead of using light particles (photons), they capture fast-moving electrons from within the diamond structure.
Professor Thomas Scott, Professor in Materials at the University of Bristol, said: “Our micropower technology can support a whole range of important applications from space technologies and security devices through to medical implants. We're excited to be able to explore all of these possibilities, working with partners in industry and research, over the next few years.”
A team of scientists and engineers from both organisations worked together to build a plasma deposition rig, a specialised apparatus used for growing the diamond at UKAEA’s Culham Campus.
This development is the result, in part, of UKAEA’s work on fusion energy.
The expertise gained in fusion research is helping to accelerate innovation in related technologies.
Spotlight on...
Nicofe Materials Ltd – More Than Just Metal
At Nicofe Materials Ltd, we specialize in materials that make missions possible. With expertise in controlled thermal expansion, soft magnetic, and refractory alloys, we provide precision-engineered solutions for the space sector and beyond.
Our focus is simple: stick to what we know and excel at it. This commitment enables us to deliver materials that meet the exacting standards required for applications in aerospace, satellite technology, and high-end electronics. Whether it’s Kovar, Invar, Hiperco, or MuMetal, our alloys are tailored to tackle the extreme demands of space exploration and performance.
One of our key contributions to the space sector is the manufacture of Torquer rods for satellites—essential components for attitude control in orbit. By leveraging our advanced metrology equipment and machining expertise, we ensure the highest levels of precision and reliability.
What sets Nicofe apart is our “more than just metal” philosophy. We don’t just supply materials; we provide comprehensive support, from material analysis and bespoke machining to specialist packaging for safe delivery anywhere in the world. We work closely with clients to solve challenges, whether it’s developing a lightweight, corrosion-resistant material for extreme environments or ensuring a perfect thermal expansion match for critical components.
As a trusted partner to companies like Airbus, Raytheon UK, and Leonardo, our mission is to empower innovation in space and other high-tech industries. We are proud to have recently passed our AS surveillance audit with flying colours, achieving no non-conformities, further demonstrating our commitment to quality. With AS9120B and ISO 9001:2015 certifications, as well as UK Cyber Essentials accreditation, quality and security are at the heart of what we do.
Nicofe Materials Ltd is proud to support the UK’s thriving space sector and looks forward to collaborating on the next generation of space technology.
Farnborough International Space Show
the Farnborough International Space Show 2025 takes place on 19th/20th March next year farnboroughspaceshow.com) .It will be co-located with the 40th International Symposium on Remote Sensing of the Environment at The Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre.
We have worked with the Farnborough International team to create a Space West stand space. There is an opportunity for you to join as an exhibiting partner on the stand. You would enjoy the following;
- Space on the stand alongside other Space West members
- A dedicated poseur (tall) table and 2 poseur chairs to conduct meetings, and the opportunity to brand your space with a ‘pop up’ or similar
- An elevated board – above your table with your company name
- An individual stand number
- Inclusion in exhibitor listing on the event website
- The opportunity to create an exhibitor profile with you listing
- The support of the Space West community
- Exhibitor PR and social media opportunities provided by Farnborough International
- The same benefits as all other exhibitors at the event
The cost of participation is just £1,000 +VAT and would be inclusive of exhibitor passes. You would only need to arrive on the first morning of the event – with your stand space ready for you.
If you would like to take a spot on the Space West stand, please let me know and I will connect you with the right person at Farnborough International. We will be working on a ‘first come first served basis’
The event connects the global space community across industry, defence, government, and academia. As you would expect from Farnborough International, the event will be international in focus and feature top quality content from high profile speakers from all parts of the world. Content will be focused on both commercial and defence space utilisation. They will convene a global audience of senior buyers from across the space industry, including space agencies, commercial space businesses, downstream data users, military and defence organisation, government departments and agencies, research and development facilities, academic institutions, entrepreneurs and investors. The event will embrace the upstream, midstream and downstream elements of the space ecosystem.
As mentioned earlier, the International Symposium on Remote Sensing of Environment will be co-locating with The Farnborough International Space Show 2025 . Below is a link to the website but essentially the symposium will host up to 1,000 delegates in the conference space in the exhibition centre for the whole of the week commencing 17th March 2025 – with Farnborough International Space Show taking place on 19th/20th March during that week. 40th International Symposium on Remote Sensing if Environment (ISRSE) | Farnborough International
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!
CySpace Cluster Capability Network Webinar - Thursday 12 December 2024
The CySpace Connected Capability Network is working to strengthen the resilience and security of the UK Space Sector.
When: 10am-11am | Thursday 12th December 2024
Where: Online
This webinar is your opportunity to learn more about the CySpace programme, including its aims, scope, and how you can contribute. Hosted by the CySpace Project team in collaboration with the Satellite Applications Catapult, we’ll explore key areas of development for the UK and share how stakeholders can engage.
Be part of shaping the future of the UK Space Sector - register today and complete the form below to secure your spot and receive the webinar link.
Event Space Security Roadshow -Tuesday 14 January 2025
As space becomes an increasingly vital domain for society, the economy, and national security, it is also becoming more congested, contested, and competitive. Innovation continues to expand the capabilities of space systems, making them essential - but also more vulnerable to a range of risks.
Join us to ensure your organisation is equipped to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving space environment and to safeguard the integrity of critical space systems.
Our first event will be taking place in Bristol on Tuesday 14 January 2025 from 10.00am-4.00pm. Register below. We'll be hosting events nationwide. Stay tuned for workshop dates and locations near you!
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]
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]
Babcock
Babcock provides critical complex engineering services which save lives, support national defence and protect communities. Focussing on three highly regulated markets: defence, emergency services and civil nuclear - Delivering vital services and managing complex assets in the UK and internationally.
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: 05/12/2024