Up to £375,000 available for space science projects

The joint funding call, which opens today from the UK Space Agency and Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), will facilitate and encourage collaboration between industry and academia, and support new entrants to the space sector.

The £375,000 Technology for Space Science fund will boost technology that will support the exploration of our universe through space-based astronomy, cosmology, solar system science and astrophysics.

Proposals could include ideas to:

• Develop and advance the understanding and realisation of technologies and skills relevant to new space science missions.
• Support paper-based studies including modelling, proof of concept, potential hardware and engineering developments, and data processing.
• Establish new academic/industrial research collaborations and feasibility studies.

Charles McCausland, Head of Major Projects and Technology Development, UK Space Agency, said:

The UK has been at the forefront of some of the most influential space missions of recent times – and we want to build on that. This funding will provide pioneering minds with the support they need to develop cutting-edge technology that will help advance the UK a global leader in space science.

Dr Colin Vincent, Associate Director Astronomy within STFC’s Programmes Directorate, said:

STFC is committed to supporting new technologies to ensure the UK is leading innovations essential to future science missions in space. We are delighted to partner with the UK Space Agency in this scheme and look forward to the exciting ideas and partnerships it will generate.

From supplying components for planetary orbiters to developing game-changing equipment to aid research in space, the UK space sector plays an important part in global space science, allowing us to discover more about our solar system and its formation.

The deadline for applications to the Technology for Space Science fund is midday 23 September 2021 and organisations can bid for up to £50,000.