The new hub will provide SMEs, startups and research organisations with access to laboratories, workspaces and testing facilities.
It will operate a no-cost residency programme and the facility can accommodate up to 50 people. It aims to strengthen the UK space supply chain, says Airbus.
Note, the UK Space Agency (UKSA) has also backed the development with £3.9m of funding from its Space Clusters Infrastructure Fund. And this was match-funded by Airbus.
Airbus Launchpad
Three companies – Applied Atomics, Spintex and Stars Edge – will take up residence at Airbus Launchpad from early February.
“Successful SMEs are essential for the future of the UK space sector and I’m proud that we are able to use our position as the UK’s largest space company to lean in and support their development,” said Kata Escott, managing director Airbus Defence and Space UK.
“This initiative is about creating the conditions for collaboration, innovation and growth. By connecting with SMEs and innovators, and in partnership with the government, we are accelerating progress for the UK at a time when it has never mattered more.
SMEs
For its part, the UKSA highlighted the need for industry collaboration.
“The Airbus Launchpad is another important example of how collaboration between industry leaders and innovative SMEs can strengthen our space sector,” said Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency.
“By giving startups and smaller businesses direct access to world-class facilities and expertise, we’re helping turn brilliant ideas into the products and services of tomorrow. Our £3.9m investment through the Space Clusters Infrastructure Fund will help develop home-grown skills, diversify the supply chain and create new space capabilities for the UK.”
Community for Space Prosperity
The Airbus Launchpad officially forms part of Airbus’s Community for Space Prosperity programme. This, says the company, aims to grow UK space supply chain activity.
Image: Airbus – Kata Escott, managing director Airbus Defence and Space UK. Kevin Bonavia, MP for Stevenage and Craig Brown, director of Investment at the UK Space Agency
See also: UK space innovation the goal of £20m Westcott Space Hub
