Bringing space tech to life
Cranfield University’s space experts are joining colleagues from across the United Kingdom to create the ESA Phi-Lab UK, which will help commercialise research and mature technologies, particularly supporting startups and SMEs.
Image By Nico El Nino / copyright Shutterstock
Funded by the UK Space Agency through the European Space Agency (ESA) and co-funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and its partners, the ESA Phi-Lab UK is part of an international network – the Phi-Lab NET – each of which focuses on a specific area.
The ESA Phi-Lab UK specialises in space sustainability, and sustainability on Earth using space-based assets. Cranfield University is a key delivery partner alongside Amentum, a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative technology solutions. The UK Phi-Lab is led by STFC and also involves Innovate UK, Satellite Applications Catapult and the Manufacturing Technology Centre as support partners.
Cranfield is offering some of its space facilities (including the CACTI facility for antenna testing, the 6G lab and Earth observation expertise) to help develop innovations with commercial potential. With funding and support from the ESA Phi-Lab UK, research projects ’graduating’ from the programme will be better positioned to bring their products and services closer to market readiness.
Stephen Hobbs, Professor of Space Sensing and Systems at Cranfield University said: “The Phi-Lab UK bridges the gap between disruptive innovation and commercial applications, by providing a crucial bank of expertise, facilities and support. We’re excited to be part of this and look forward to helping companies and innovators mature their technologies, to advance sustainability in space and on Earth.”
The support from the ESA Phi-Lab UK includes funding between €200k and €225k (for up to two years). Additionally, research projects will be able to access technical expertise and business coaching, support with IP, access to world-class facilities and the option to be based at Harwell or Daresbury in their local space clusters.
To find out more and apply for the programme visit the ESA Phi-Lab UK website: www.esaphilab.org.uk
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