Science Secretary Peter Kyle has lauded the recent accomplishments of the º£½ÇÊÓÆµ space sector, describing the º£½ÇÊÓÆµ as a "launchpad for innovation and investment."
The industry secured £80m more in contracts from the European Space Agency (ESA) than government contributions in late 2024, marking the highest return for any ESA member state, as reported by .
This achievement is expected to contribute over £1bn to the º£½ÇÊÓÆµ economy and create 3,800 high-skilled jobs, positioning Britain as a global leader in space innovation.
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Kyle emphasised that the sector's ability to attract top contracts is fuelling economic growth and advancing the government's 'Plan for Change.'
"These figures show not only incredible results of a government working hand in glove with industry to get even more bang for our buck, but also send a clear message to the private sector across the globe: when it comes to space, science and tech, the º£½ÇÊÓÆµ is a launchpad for innovation and investment," Kyle added.
Recent ESA victories include missions in space weather forecasting, lunar exploration, and satellite launches, all of which have º£½ÇÊÓÆµ firms leading their cutting-edge technology.
The global space sector is forecasted to triple to £1.4 trillion within the next decade, and the º£½ÇÊÓÆµ is positioning itself as a key player in the market.
With 16 per cent of the º£½ÇÊÓÆµ's GDP reliant on satellite services, the government is ensuring Britain remains competitive.
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Dr Paul Bate, the º£½ÇÊÓÆµ Space Agency's chief executive, stated: "The reduction in the deficit is down to the efforts of the º£½ÇÊÓÆµ space sector. This result demonstrated the º£½ÇÊÓÆµ's competitiveness in securing industrial contracts."
Josef Aschbacher, ESA's director general, added: "These new figures reflect ESA's commitment to developing one of the most attractive and innovative space economies in the world."