The European Space Agency (ESA) and the UK Space Agency have announced a collaborative effort aimed at expanding the utilization of satellite communications within the UK, focusing particularly on advancements in 5G and 6G technologies.
The initiative, highlighted in a joint statement, was launched following the contributory achievements of ESA’s Harwell research center, home to the European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT).
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ESA and the UK Space Agency are set to enhance ECSAT’s pioneering 5G/6G facility, intensifying efforts in satellite communications and exploring broader applications of satellite services, which currently contribute approximately GBP 360 billion to the UK’s GDP.
The collaboration aims to establish a space quantum laboratory and develop activities related to in-orbit servicing, assembly, and manufacturing. These advancements are crucial for ensuring satellite lifecycle sustainability and introducing new services to benefit UK businesses and society.
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Additionally, the UK Space Agency plans to launch five training schemes totaling GBP 2.1 million, aiming to address the skills gap in the rapidly expanding high-tech sector.
Josef Aschbacher, Director-General at ESA, stated that the collaboration with the UK Space Agency aims to advance new initiatives in high-growth areas, improve services for all European citizens, and increase ESA’s UK workforce to 200 people by 2030.
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