A new report has identified Northern Ireland as a key player in
the rapidly expanding global space economy and highlights
significant opportunities for growth in advanced manufacturing,
cybersecurity, and satellite communications.
Commissioned by Matrix, Northern Ireland's Science Industry
Panel, the Space Scoping Study provides a comprehensive analysis
of the region's strengths in space-related industries and
outlines a strategic roadmap for enhancing Northern Ireland's
role in the sector.
Economy Minister Dr welcomed the findings of
the report and said: “This report highlights the
north's strengths in engineering, manufacturing, and technology.
These are key assets that will help us build a competitive and
sustainable space sector, supporting economic development and
high-value jobs.
“The report also identifies the north's strategic
advantage due to its dual-market access, providing a unique
opportunity to attract investment and forge international
partnerships.
“My department looks forward to working with industry and
academia to seize these opportunities and strengthen our region's
position in the global space economy.”
Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency said: “Home to a wealth
of talent and expertise in areas from advanced manufacturing to
innovative telecommunications, Northern Ireland plays a vital
role in the UK's space ecosystem. We are working with a range of
partners to develop our national capabilities, build resilience
and increase the uptake of space services, to support the
delivery of public services such as the monitoring of harmful
algal blooms in Lough Neagh.
“This latest Matrix report highlights the breadth and depth of
future opportunities, and the fundamental role played by space in
driving economic growth. It emphasises the positive impact that
space technologies have on people and businesses across the
region, and how well positioned Northern Ireland is to benefit
from this growing global sector.
“The space sector has a role to play in supporting a sustainable
public sector with an increase in services utilising satellite
technologies. Within the next decade, Northern Ireland will have
manufactured thrusters that will travel to the Moon's surface and
expanded its role in space sustainability and environmental
monitoring.”
Robert Hill, Chair of Matrix and the NI SPACE Cluster Manager,
who chaired the Space Scoping Study report commented: "Northern
Ireland already has a strong footprint in the space sector, with
leading companies developing cutting-edge technologies for
satellite systems, propulsion, and space-based communications.
This report presents a clear vision for how Northern Ireland can
take its place on the world stage in space innovation. By
focusing our resources on key strategic areas, we can position
the region as a hub for space technology and attract investment
from across the UK, Europe, and beyond.”
Link to report: https://matrixni.org/documents/building-on-our-strengths-northern-irelands-growing-space-industry/
Notes to editors:
- Photo caption: Economy Minister Dr pictured with Robert
Hill, Chair of Matrix.
- The report emphasises Northern Ireland's capabilities in
advanced engineering and manufacturing, positioning the region as
a leader in satellite propulsion, in-orbit servicing, and cyber
resilience for space infrastructure.
- It identifies seven key pillars of opportunity for Northern
Ireland, including: Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering,
Aerospace, Public Sector Applications, Next-Generation
Communications, Cyber Security Resilience, Green Technologies and
Solutions, and Dual Market Access
