Space South Central Partnership launches at Farnborough Airshow

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Sam Pither

Launching at the Farnborough International Airshow, the Space South Central Partnership brings together research institutes, businesses and industry in Hampshire and Surrey's space sector to create the country’s biggest space cluster.

The partnership, which also includes the University of Portsmouth, brings together more than 120 academic institutions, private companies and private sector organisations to capitalise on the region’s existing strength in space technologies, investing in new research, applications and capabilities.

Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, said: “I’m proud to see some of the UK’s most prestigious space experts and businesses coming together to further strengthen this thriving sector. This network will not only provide new routes of access and support for established space organisations in the region, but it will help create more opportunities for groups and individuals inspired by STEM to find their way into a rewarding space career.

“Space South Central exemplifies the vision set out in the National Space Strategy of a sector working together across the country to showcase UK skills and capabilities, catalyse investment, and enhance our international reputation as a hub of expertise and innovation.”

(L-R) Dr Louise Butt (Centre Manager, South Coast Centre of Excellence in Satellite Applications), Dr Paul Bate (CEO of UK Space Agency), Keith Robson (Interim Head of Space South Central)

The South East is currently responsible for 25 per cent (£4.2 billion) of all UK space-related income, with the area Space South Central represents accounting for around £3 billion of this. The industry employs around 5,600 people in the two counties.

Professor Adam Amara, Director of the Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation at the University of Portsmouth, said: “Space research helps address fundamental questions about our place in the Universe and has a huge impact on our lives on Earth keeping us connected, improving our health and protecting the environment.

“I am excited that we are playing a crucial role in the partnership by using our globally-important research and innovation in space technologies to strengthen the UK as a world-class space nation.”

Featured image: (L-R) Keith Robson (Interim Head of Space South Central), Lord Willetts (Chair of UK Space Agency), Prof Adam Amara (Director - Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation, University of Portsmouth)

Sam Pither

Sam is the Regional Editor of Biz News, responsible for both Hampshire and Dorset. A new recruit to journalism, Sam started writing for the Business Magazine as a freelancer in May of 2022 after completing his degree in English at University College London. His passion for local businesses and ability to tell a story soon caught the attention of the publication’s management team and have led to his meteoric rise. Sam, who lives in central Reading, takes a particular interest in technology, gaming and food and drink, having been a chef before starting his degree.