The UK Space Agency has unveiled its strategic plan, announcing eleven pivotal technologies that will propel the nation’s space sector into the future. The move is aimed at fortifying the UK’s standing in the global space race while fostering deeper collaborations with international space agencies, such as NASA, the ESA, and Japan’s JAXA.
This comprehensive strategy, outlined in the recently released Space Exploration Technology Roadmap, will provide a framework for the next decade of research, development, and investment decisions in the sector. The plan sets its sights not just on technological advancement but also on harnessing the increasing commercial potential of space exploration. With the global space economy anticipated to reach a staggering $1tn (€897bn) by 2040, the stakes are high and the opportunities are vast.
Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, shared his enthusiasm about the imminent possibilities. “We are entering a new era of space exploration where governments and commercial operators are working closer than ever before,” he said. By crafting this roadmap, Dr Bate believes the UK is laying out a clear plan for the industry, research community, and international partners, solidifying the country’s position as a leading player in future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
Among the prioritised technologies, artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomy feature prominently, especially for enhancing mission capabilities and efficiency. For instance, autonomous navigation could facilitate the exploration of distant planets and moons without human input. This technology is also considered critical for commercial satellites operating in low-Earth orbit.
Space nuclear power is another key area of focus, foreseen to offer a steady source of energy on the lunar surface. This could be crucial in sustaining human life, constructing infrastructure on the Moon, and eventually, setting course for Mars.
The other technologies listed in the ambitious blueprint include advanced manufacturing; communications and mission operations; in situ resource utilisation; life support and crew performance; navigation and sensing; propulsion; robotics; sample curation; and science instrumentation.
The roadmap also sheds light on ongoing projects that form part of the UK’s broader objective to become a dominant force in space exploration. One such project is Lunar Pathfinder. Operated by Surrey Satellite Technology, this satellite will offer communication services around the Moon under the ESA’s Moonlight project.
These strategic technology choices resonate with the UK’s National Space Strategy’s objectives to uplift and modernise the nation’s space industry. This industry has witnessed a significant funding surge recently. Data from VC firm Seraphim Space reveals that between Q2 2022 and Q2 2023, UK space tech firms clinched the third highest investment globally, amassing $311mn (€279mn).
