A new specialist facility will help small businesses in the UK space sector turn their ideas into reality, as part of the drive to strengthen the UK space supply chain.
The Airbus Launchpad, which boasts world-class laboratories, workspaces and testing facilities, has opened at the Stevenage site of Airbus Defence and Space, which is part of the consortium that makes up CEOI.
The incubation facility, which can accommodate more than 50 people, will be available to SMEs, start-ups and research organisations working within the space sector through a no-cost residency programme.
The aim is to develop homegrown skills and capabilities to strengthen the UK’s position as a leader in space technology innovation.
The facility includes six reconfigurable labs dedicated to supporting advancements in areas such as advanced robotics, virtual reality, and rapid prototyping.
Funding of £3.9m from the UK Space Agency has supported the development of the Airbus Launchpad and has been match-funded by Airbus. Three companies – Applied Atomics, Spintex and Stars Edge – are the first to take residence.
The development forms part of Airbus’ Community for Space Prosperity programme, which aims to grow UK space supply chain activity through research, innovation and outreach.
Kata Escott, Managing Director Airbus Defence and Space UK, said: “Successful SMEs are essential for the future of the UK space sector and I’m proud that we are able to use our position as the UK’s largest space company to lean in and support their development. This initiative is about creating the conditions for collaboration, innovation and growth. By connecting with SMEs and innovators, and in partnership with the Government, we are accelerating progress for the UK at a time when it has never mattered more.
Space Minister Liz Lloyd said: “By backing our SMEs and start-ups, we’re helping brilliant British ideas become successful businesses that create jobs and strengthen our supply chain. This partnership between Airbus and the UK Space Agency shows what we can achieve when industry and government work together to build a space sector where the smallest of businesses can thrive.
Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, said: “The Airbus Launchpad is another important example of how collaboration between industry leaders and innovative SMEs can strengthen our space sector. By giving start-ups and smaller businesses direct access to world-class facilities and expertise, we’re helping turn brilliant ideas into the products and services of tomorrow. Our £3.9 million investment through the Space Clusters Infrastructure Fund will help develop homegrown skills, diversify the supply chain, and create new space capabilities for the UK.”
The opening of Airbus Launchpad follows that of Westcott Space Hub in Buckinghamshire, which is set to boost UK space innovation and create hundreds of jobs by providing testing facilities, training spaces and commercial workspace for space businesses.
