Space-enabled connectivity to tackle key UK challenges

Space-enabled connectivity to tackle key UK challenges More than a dozen European Space Agency projects will use satellite-enabled technologies to address challenges impacting the everyday lives of UK citizens. Backed by the UK government and delivered via ESA, the 16 ventures – which were announced last week – will bring connectivity to a remote Scottish railway and enable farmers to grow more food with less waste, as well as supporting cutting-edge technologies, such as quantum-secure communications, ultra-fast laser data links, optical communications between satellites and ground, and 5G and 6G connectivity. The initiative will create high-value British jobs, strengthen security, and enable the UK to develop skills and space-based technologies that will benefit the country for decades to come. Growing more with less One project is set to transform how farmers monitor and manage their crops across the growing season. UK agri-tech firm Farmer Charlie is building low-cost sensors that deliver insights on several parameters related to crop growth and health, with data sent to farmers in real-time using satellite and mobile connectivity. This will enable growers to apply water, fertilizers and pesticides when and where they are needed, reducing waste and boosting crop yields. A key aim of the project – named GAUFF (Gardens, Allotments and Urban Farming Facilitator) – is to ensure the technology operates in areas with patchy terrestrial network coverage, benefiting farms in remote and isolated regions of the UK. Space-enabled links for scenic Scottish railway Thanks to another project – named SODOR (Satellites for Digitalisation of Railways) – passengers using a remote Scottish railway service will be able to connect to broadband internet as they pass through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. Terrestrial networks have long struggled to cover the route taken by the West Highland Line, but Information technology company CGI IT UK is addressing this challenge by fitting a ScotRail train with advanced satellite communications equipment, bringing reliable connectivity to the route for the first time. Cutting-edge technologies Further projects will focus on optical communications, deep space and lunar communications, software-defined satellite technology, next-generation spacecraft propulsion, and the convergence satellite and ground-based 5G and 6G networks. Space Minister Liz Lloyd said: “This investment shows how innovations in the UK's satellite sector can improve lives, with better connectivity delivering internet access for more train journeys, and smarter farming. “By backing brilliant British companies, we are not only furthering our status as one of the world’s leading space powers, but creating high-quality jobs and new opportunities across the UK.” The 16 projects are delivered via the strategic programmes lines Space for 5G/6G and Sustainable Connectivity, and Optical and Quantum Communications – ScyLight within ESA’s programme of Advanced Research in Telecommunication Systems (ARTES). You can see the full list of projects and further information on the UK government website.