UK-Australia Space Bridge gets under way
The first collaborative activity within the UK-Australia Space Bridge framework has been launched by SmartSat CRC, the UK Science and Innovation Network, and the UK’s Satellite Applications Catapult, with the support of Austrade and the Australian Space Agency.
Applications for project funding close on 30 August.
SmartSat CRC and the Satellite Applications Catapult will fund up to four research projects that align to the mutual benefits of both countries and create collaboration through the Space Bridge. The projects must be completed by 30 June 2022 and will be funded up to AUD$100,000 (GBP50,000) per project. SmartSat CRC will manage the assessment process, in collaboration with the UK’s Science and Innovation Network and the Satellite Applications Catapult. Projects should involve UK and Australia partners and align to the SA Catapult Roadmap or SmartSat CRC Strategic Plan.
These preliminary phase projects aim to develop and foster partnerships across academia and industry in both the UK and Australia. It is expected the projects will lead to larger collaborative research projects that grow industry capacity, provide an innovative end-product or capability, and build upon the respective space ecosystems of each country.
Projects will address four topic areas identified as strategically beneficial to the mutual interests of each country:
- Earth Observation and Climate Resilience
- Agriculture and Land Management from Space
- Enabling Connectivity and Innovative Space Communications
- Quantum Technologies for Space.
SmartSatCRC Chief Executive Officer Professor Andy Koronios said, “This is the first joint initiative to be undertaken since the announcement of the Space Bridge with the backing of both the UK and Australian governments. It is just the beginning of the exciting collaborative partnerships that aim for long term growth and commercial opportunities for both countries.”
Applications are due by 5pm Australian Eastern Standard Time, Monday 30 August 2021. For more information visit the SmartSat CRC website.
Or email: SpaceBridge@smartsatcrc.com