Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Space
  • /
  • First phase of SBRI to tackle blue green algae in Lough Neagh launched

Space

First phase of SBRI to tackle blue green algae in Lough Neagh launched

NI SPACE, in conjunction with the UK Space Agency and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched the first phase of a Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI), where three companies have been awarded £360,000 collectively to develop satellite technology and data that could be used to improve the detection and monitoring of blue green algae in Lough Neagh.

Above: Lough Neagh.
Courtesy NI SPACE

The project will harness satellite, space-based and remote sensing technologies, alongside aquatic applications, to observe and predict blue green algae blooms, which will help to inform the development of strategic initiatives to protect the Lough and other waterways across Northern Ireland.

Advertisement
DSEI 2025

Following an open challenge competition, 40 high quality and very compelling bids were received. As a result of a detailed process, three suppliers have been awarded contracts for their proposed projects; Newcastle University (Water Quality Digital Twin Dashboard of Lough Neagh), 3DEO, (HABIT – Harmful Algal Bloom Intelligent Twin) and Plastic-i (Bloomcast).

“Space technology offers a plethora of opportunities when it comes to addressing pressing environmental issues,” explained Robert Hill, NI SPACE Cluster Manager.

“We are proud to partner with the UK Space Agency and DAERA on this project to showcase the transformative potential of satellite systems and technologies in tackling the blue green algae issue in Lough Neagh and beyond. By investing in innovative solutions, we’re aiming to demonstrate how advancements in space technology can drive better environmental monitoring, management and protection for the benefit of our communities and ecosystems.”

Each of the three selected suppliers will be expected to develop their proof of concepts by March 2025 and if successful, a second phase may include further development of these concepts.

Advertisement
ODU RT

“Protecting our waterways and ensuring the health of our environment is a top priority for DAERA,” commented Andrew Muir, DAERA Minister. “The pioneering use of space technology through this project represents what will hopefully be a significant step forward in mitigating the challenges posed by blue green algae.

“I commend the companies involved for their forward-thinking solutions and am confident that this collaboration will lead to valuable developments in environmental monitoring and protection. I wish them well in the next phase of the initiative.”

Chris Mcquire, Local Growth Strategy Manager at UK Space Agency said: “Space technology offers unique capabilities that help protect the natural environment. By leveraging space and satellite data, this project will help tackle the issue of blue green algae and support effective monitoring and management of blooms in the years to come.
 
“It is a great demonstration of how space innovation delivers tangible benefits here on Earth.”

This project is one of several initiatives, including other SBRI projects, supporting the Lough Neagh Action Plan, aimed at improving water quality and environmental management of the Lough and Northern Ireland’s waterways.

Advertisement
Babcock LB
Teledyne launches industrial image sensors tested for space

Defence Space

Teledyne launches industrial image sensors tested for space

23 May 2025

Teledyne Technologies has announced the release of three variants of industrial CMOS sensors, with resolutions ranging from 1.3MP up to 67MP, following a delta space qualification methodology and radiation testing.

Babcock’s Festival of Engineering in Fife inspires new talent

Aerospace Defence Space Events

Babcock’s Festival of Engineering in Fife inspires new talent

21 May 2025

A journey through space was just one of a number of fantastic opportunities available at Babcock's Rosyth facility this week as the defence company rocketed 300 school pupils’ ambitions at the company’s annual Festival of Engineering.

Skynet satellite reaches major milestone

Defence Space

Skynet satellite reaches major milestone

20 May 2025

The UK’s next-generation military communications satellite - Skynet 6A - has successfully completed the coupling of its communications and service modules.

Laser ultrasound reveals elasticity of space rock

Space

Laser ultrasound reveals elasticity of space rock

19 May 2025

Scientists and engineers at the University of Nottingham have used laser ultrasound to measure and reveal the elasticity of space rock for the first time.

Advertisement
DSEI 2025
University of Glasgow lab could help space industry dodge a bullet

Space

University of Glasgow lab could help space industry dodge a bullet

16 May 2025

A small piece of outer space recreated in a basement in Glasgow could help ensure that a key enabling technology for future space missions won’t lead to deadly ‘rifle bullets’ of space junk circling the Earth.

Ramon.Space awarded Eutelsat OneWeb communication channelizers contract

Space

Ramon.Space awarded Eutelsat OneWeb communication channelizers contract

15 May 2025

Ramon.Space has been awarded a contract by Eutelsat to provide onboard digital communication channelizers for the expansion of its OneWeb Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation.

Advertisement
ODU RT