The UK Space Agency has signed a deal with Texan space tech company Axiom that could allow British astronauts to take part in future commercially sponsored missions.
The agency, which is sponsored by the Department for Science Innovation and Technology (DSIT) said that missions with the US space start-up would see British astronauts venture into space for up to two weeks, in order to test new technologies and carry out important scientific research.
In an statement, the minister of state for DSIT George Freeman said: “The prospect of a historic UK mission with Axiom Space has the potential to inspire a whole new generation to reach for the stars, while supporting our efforts to build one of the most innovative and attractive space economies in the world.
“We want to put the UK at the forefront of the global race for commercial space investment, continue to support scientists and engineers to test new technologies and carry out important research and, ultimately, bring the benefits back to people and businesses across the country.”
The chief executive for UK Space Agency Dr. Paul Bate agreed and said the deal is “the springboard” to “assess how we best push forward the frontiers of knowledge and innovation and showcase the power of space to improve lives on Earth.”
The agreement will finally allow the UK to operate a space flight, which it hasn’t done since 1971.
The UK government has expressed its interest in accelerating the country’s space sector through its National Space Strategy and the UK Science and Technology Framework. As of now, the sector is reportedly worth £16.4 billion.
Since the UK Space Agency released a £65 million funding package for “high risk, high reward” technological advancements in the sector, several companies have been eyeing the financial backing, with Open Cosmos raising £40 million in September, and Skyrora securing a £259,000 contract with the European Space Agency.
