UK Space Agency launches new climate change project

The UK Space Agency has received £15m worth of funding for a new space innovation programme to help tackle climate change. 

The first £10m will be used to support projects focusing on earth observation technologies.

Currently, half of the measurements needed to monitor climate change rely on satellites. The funding will be used to help develop more advanced instruments and data analysis techniques to support climate science and to help inform strategies that can reduce emissions and protect local areas from climate impacts such as flooding.

The remaining £5m will be set aside for international projects.

Businesses, research organisations and universities can bid for funding to match their own investment projects.

Science minister Amanda Solloway said: ‘The UK has a thriving space sector, and as well as being a science superpower, we want to lead the world in space technology.

‘The National Space Innovation Programme will ensure that our best and brightest talent have the backing they need to turn their world-class ideas into goods and services, creating jobs and opportunities dedicated to tackling the most pressing global challenges we face.’

Dr Graham Turnock, chief executive of the UK Space Agency added:  ‘The National Space Innovation Programme will enable the UK to develop products, services and technologies while creating high-skilled jobs and boosting our economy.

‘The UK Space Agency is leading work across Government to develop the UK’s space capabilities. Our closest international competitors have well-developed national programmes alongside their European Space Agency commitments.

‘Now is time for the UK to do the same as we increase our space ambitions.’

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