Expansion set to catapult space exploration in Leicester
The Satellite Applications Catapult has revealed that it will grow its presence in the East Midlands, supporting the Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology and Earth Observation Centre (METEOR) at Space Park Leicester over the next five years.
The Catapult’s East Midlands Centre of Excellence in Satellite Applications (EMCoE) was established in early 2014, and current partners include the University of Leicester, the National Centre for Earth Observation and the British Geological Survey. EMCoE supports business growth by connecting businesses with research experts and through the formation of new commercial and collaborative partnerships.
The METEOR project at Space Park Leicester will establish a new world-leading research, innovation and teaching hub bringing together academic research, and industrial space and Earth observation (EO) R&D, building on the activities that have been supported through EMCoE. The Catapult will use the centre to expand its approach to supporting commercialisation of EO data, and foster collaborations between academics and companies in the region and across the nation to turn research concepts and outcomes into commercial ventures.
Stuart Martin, chief executive of the Satellite Applications Catapult said: “Our centre in the East Midlands has become a vital focus point for space organisations in and out of the region. As we expand our capabilities around the country, it is vital we invest in regional expertise, particularly where there are clear links with local innovative businesses and research.
“Leicester continues to provide leadership in the field of Earth observation. The development of the METEOR project strengthens this position and the Satellite Applications Catapult is delighted to be collaborating to support this exciting initiative. By growing our expertise in Earth observation in Leicester alongside METEOR, we will be able to accelerate our mission to identify and support the world-class space services sector that is rapidly establishing itself in the UK.”
The move follows the news earlier in the week that Airbus would relocating its Leicestershire-based Earth Observation expert team to Space Park Leicester when its current lease expires.
