The UK Space Agency has awarded £1.5 million to six projects combining satellite technology with artificial intelligence to address challenges in climate and transport. Delivered under the Unlocking Space for Business programme, the funding aims to create scalable solutions that reduce emissions, improve accessibility and foster economic growth.
The move supports the Government’s Industrial Strategy to accelerate innovation and strengthen Britain’s role in space-enabled technologies. The UK space sector already employs 56,000 people and has generated more than £2.2 billion in investment and revenue in 2024–25 through the wider Unlocking Space Programme.
“These projects show how satellite data and AI can be applied in sectors far removed from traditional space activity, unlocking new opportunities while supporting sustainability and inclusivity,” said Dr Craig Brown, Investment Director at the UK Space Agency. DSIT Minister Ian Murray added that they demonstrate the ability of Britain’s space sector to deliver real-world benefits in daily life.
The projects target areas where terrestrial data has been insufficient or costly, developing solutions for deployment across the UK and export to global markets. They build on parallel investments including £9 million for satellite instruments to monitor carbon dioxide and methane emissions, and £2.5 million for trials integrating satellite data with AI to improve travel demand management.
The Space Agency has also funded over £2.5 million in projects using satellite data for public services, from biodiversity monitoring to agricultural support. These initiatives underline a broader government commitment to Earth observation, environmental monitoring and space-enabled innovation.
By linking space companies with industries traditionally outside the sector, the UK is working to embed AI and satellite data into mainstream services. The approach reflects a vision of responsible innovation that strengthens economic competitiveness while addressing climate change and transport challenges.
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