It’s a major move for the UK, and UK space exploration overall. Most recently, they opened their new engine test laboratory—which will develop and test satellite engines—this past summer. The facility is located on the Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire. That means it’s a £3.8 million investment, with 40 per cent of funding from the UK Space Agency. This state-of-the-art laboratory will serve as a hub for start-ups, established aerospace firms, and academic researchers focused on electric propulsion systems, crucial for powering modern satellites.
Electric propulsion technology is making big waves across aerospace thanks to its efficiency and efficacy. Our newly founded coal lab is available as a specialized testing facility. This will create an enormous opportunity to empower innovators to further develop and refine their systems. Mark Stokes is the co-founder and CEO of Magdrive. He’s convinced the laboratory offers a rare and thrilling opportunity for collaborative work.
“By opening its doors to the wider space community, the DEEP Lab will accelerate the pace of discovery and help cement the UK’s reputation as a global leader in space technology.” – Liz Lloyd, Space Minister
The UK Space Agency has been a pro-active supporter of this. Their participation underscores its importance in charting the future of space operations. Liz Lloyd highlighted that electric propulsion is pivotal for modern advancements in space exploration, stating that “UK innovators can lead the way.”
Dr. Paul Bate, chief executive of the UK Space Agency, praised the facility as a “fantastic example of how targeted investment can deliver real impact.” He highlighted the lab’s role in expanding development of advanced technologies. It would foster new opportunities for collaborative discovery among federal and non-federal researchers within the growing domestic space sector.
The lab has the potential to benefit UK firms more than any other, giving them access to world-leading testing facilities that they could not otherwise afford. The DEEP Lab fosters an active ecosystem of innovation. In doing so, this approach places it in prime position to maximize its impact on the UK becoming a global leader in space technology.