Activities will be carried out by researchers and engineers from both the UK and Saudi Arabia.
“Space-based data is essential to addressing global challenges,” said Dr Becky Canning, Deputy Director for Space at the University of Portsmouth and Principal Investigator for the project. “By combining the University’s expertise in mission design with that of our academic partners and Saudi Arabia’s technical capabilities, we can deliver real scientific impact.”
The work will be funded through the UK Government’s Gulf Strategy Fund, and also by the Saudi Space Agency.
Note that the university’s involvement in the mission is as part of Space South Central (SSC), the regional space cluster. And the Universities of Surrey and UCL, together with UK space SMEs, will be supporting the programme.
SSC
“This collaboration is a testament to our long-standing commitment to fostering international partnerships,” said Dr Louise Butt, Director of SSC. “Space South Central has consistently led the way in bringing together world-class academic talent and industry expertise to drive global collaboration.”
“With our strong academic base and established industry network, Space South Central continues to position the UK as a leader in international collaboration. This project strengthens the UK’s role as a trusted partner in the rapidly expanding global space economy.”
Space ecosystem
The Saudi Space Agency highlighted the importance of being part of the international space ecosystem.
“International collaboration is essential to advancing space in ways that deliver global benefit,” said Kamal A. Al-Harbi, Chief Space Technologies & Applications Officer at the Saudi Space Agency.
“Through the Kingdom’s commitment to being a trusted and proactive partner in the international space ecosystem, we connect complementary expertise across borders to accelerate innovation and foster lasting cooperation in research, knowledge exchange, and talent development, helping to shape a more sustainable and opportunity-driven future for the space sector worldwide.”
Image: SARsatX
See also: Circuits Integrated establishes UK office with Space South Central
