The funding call, which opens today from the UK Space
Agency’s Space Exploration programme, invites the
space sector to bid for up to £500,000 to boost
technology that will support and advance robotic and
human exploration of Low Earth Orbit, the Moon, and
Mars.
Proposals could include ideas to develop:
- Space based nuclear power
- Technology that supports human and robotic
exploration
- Technology to support potential future
exploration missions
- Techniques for extracting mineral resources in
space
The development of space-based nuclear reactors, for
example, could potentially lead to the more efficient
use of technology on Earth, such as quickly
deployable microreactors to restore power to
disaster-hit areas.
Sue Horne, Head of Space Exploration at the UK Space
Agency, said:
Exploration of Low Earth Orbit and our surrounding
celestial neighbours delivers important
breakthroughs that advance our understanding of the
universe, opens up economic possibilities and make
life better back on Earth.
The UK has provided expertise and equipment to some
of the most high-profile space missions of recent
times. This funding will help our world-class space
sector kickstart new technological successes,
allowing us to explore our solar system further.
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 exploration, allowing us to discover
more about our solar system and its formation.
The deadline for applications is 5pm on 31 August
2021. Organisations can bid for between £50,000 -
£500,000. Details on how to apply for funding can be
found here.
