Tag: space

Thales Alenia Space launches MARSBalloon 2024

Thales Alenia Space, a joint-venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), harness students’ curiosity for space, science and life on Mars with the launch of MARSBalloon 2024.

Led by Thales Alenia Space graduates and apprentices in the UK, MARSBalloon is a hands-on science project for primary and secondary students and shows how exciting and varied career opportunities in space, engineering and science can be – without putting on a space suit.

Students work together to create experiments to test the response of electronics, materials, plants and even food to the harsh conditions in space.

Experiments fit inside a small capsule and fly on the high altitude balloon, rising to an altitude of 30km, more than twice the height of commercial airliners where conditions are very similar to the surface of Mars – including temperatures of -50°C and pressures 1/100th that of sea level.

This year’s MARSBalloon will also have a competitive element, with prizes awarded for primary and secondary categories for Best Innovation, Best Decoration, Engineers Choice and VIP Judge’s Choice award.

The deadline for registration is 8th March 2024 with the launch of the balloon in May.

Teachers can find out more about the MARSBalloon and download the information pack here: https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/futuremartians

Key dates for this year’s MARSBalloon:

  • 8th March: Last day for Registration. The process take five minutes and can be done here.
  • 30th April: Deadline for experiment delivery to Thales Alenia Space
  • May / June: MARSBalloon launch (depending on weather conditions)

Ballymacash Primary school has already signed up. Primary teacher, Susan Brown, said: “We are so excited to be involved in such an amazing activity. The students can’t wait to start dreaming up their own experiments.

“We’re looking forward to having our very own MARSBalloon workshop in March – so watch this space to see what the children come up with!”

Drashti Shah, Thales Alenia Space Engineer and MARSBalloon Project Manager, said: “We are delighted to have launched MARSBalloon 2024. We had a record number of participants last year, flying over 200 experiments into the stratosphere, and this year we have changed the dates to allow more schools to get involved. I

“t is a fantastic fun, free of charge that really gives young student experience of deigning their own experiments and first-hand experience learning more about space, widening their future career horizons”

Visit thalesgroup.com/futuremartians to sign up.

About Thales Alenia Space:

Drawing on over 40 years of experience and a unique combination of skills, expertise and cultures, Thales Alenia Space delivers cost-effective solutions for telecommunications, navigation, Earth observation, environmental management, exploration, science and orbital infrastructures.

Governments and private industry alike count on Thales Alenia Space to design satellite-based systems that provide anytime, anywhere connections and positioning, monitor our planet, enhance management of its resources, and explore our Solar System and beyond. Thales Alenia Space sees space as a new horizon, helping to build a better, more sustainable life on Earth.

A joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), Thales Alenia Space also teams up with Telespazio to form the parent companies’ Space Alliance, which offers a complete range of services. Thales Alenia Space posted consolidated revenues of approximately 2.2 billion euros in 2022 and has around 8,500 employees in 10 countries with 17 sites in Europe and a plant in the US.

To find out more about MARSBalloon, visit www.thalesgroup.com/en/futuremartians.

Edinburgh Zoo’s Penguins Café upgrades the visitor experience

Workplace design and management consultancy, Space Solutions, has refreshed Edinburgh Zoo’s Penguins Café to enhance the customer experience.

Overlooking Penguins Rock, Europe’s largest outdoor penguin pool, the Penguins Café is a busy eatery at Edinburgh Zoo. Challenged with a tired and inefficient space, SPACE upgraded the café to accommodate its large, diverse clientele while meeting the ambitious timescales of completing the project ahead of the opening weekend of school summer holidays.

The SPACE Design & Build team undertook the design services and fit-out, collaborating with graphic designer Heather Cumming who handled the updated branding, from the new logo to menu boards and wall murals.

Transforming the black and white space with bright, vibrant colours, the refreshed Penguins Café mirrors the excitement of visiting the adjoining penguin enclosure, with penguin facts featuring around the space.

Following a review of the space and customer needs, SPACE retained many of the existing features and furniture to reduce waste, including reupholstering the existing banquette seating for reuse.

To seamlessly manage the high foot traffic, SPACE designed a two-colour flooring system, with blue areas designated for highlighted key customer touch points, such as servery counter and seating areas, while neutral beige trails encourage movement. Cleanable, soft seating and coverings as well as acoustic rafts suspended from the ceiling were incorporated to better the acoustics in the active space.

Isobel Jones, Senior Interior Designer at SPACE, said: “We are thrilled to have worked with Edinburgh Zoo to refresh the popular Penguins Café. Our design has enabled the space to feel bigger and work more efficiently for both customers and staff.

“At the heart of the café remains an appreciation of the penguins, enabling visitors to retain the excitement of visiting Penguins Rock while improving their dining experience.”

Beccy Angus, Head of Discovery Learning at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, commented: “Overlooking Penguins Rock, Penguins Café is situated in the heart of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s Edinburgh Zoo.

“The café is an essential part of the customer experience and the refreshed design will ensure all of our visitors continue to have a memorable time at the zoo which helps inspire them to protect, value and love nature.”

Space Solutions has been creating award-winning interiors since 1997. The business continues to develop the concept of workplace consultancy and has worked with major public & private organisations across the UK. The business has locations in Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee Livingston and London and employs 198 members of staff.

Our survival depends on people choosing local, say Edinburgh businesses

Survey by Scotland Loves Local highlights critical need for Edinburgh residents to get behind people and enterprises in the city

Nine-in-ten businesses in Edinburgh and the Lothians say the support of local people is critical to their survival as they battle continued unprecedented challenges.

The statistic has been revealed by the Scotland Loves Local campaign as it issues a rallying cry for people to choose local this summer and support enterprises – and protect jobs – in their community, unlocking millions of pounds worth of spending.

Research was carried out by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), the organisation which spearheads Scotland Loves Local, among its members and stakeholders, which include the country’s Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) – with the findings reinforcing the importance of grassroots action in fuelling a fairer, stronger, more sustainable national economy.

It found: 

  • 93% of businesses in Edinburgh and the Lothians said the support of the local community was important, of which 85% said it was “extremely important”.
  • 93% also said it was important that people “love local” and get behind businesses in their communities this summer.
  • And the circular impact of businesses boosting their local economy was reinforced by the survey responses, with nine-in-ten (93%) who took part saying they buy from and sell to other local enterprises across the region.

Born as the nation emerged from the first Covid-19 lockdown in summer 2020, Scotland Loves Local has evolved into a campaign for longer-term good – encouraging people to make the places they live better by supporting the people and businesses around them.

That synergy between business and community was demonstrated in STP’s survey findings, with nearly three-quarters (73%) of survey respondents involved in wider community initiatives across Edinburgh city and the Lothians – such as skills development, volunteering and charity fundraising. 

Businesses and communities mutually supporting one another is a philosophy close to the heart of Fin Clarkson, Food Services Manager at Space, a community Hub in Broomhouse, that operates a community café on site and Outta Space Pizza across the city.

Fin Clarkson said: “It’s hard out there at the moment – both for local businesses and the communities they serve.

“At Space, we are working hard to support local people through regular community meals, cooking classes and food education as well as an employability pathway from our Training Academy courses to paid employment within our social enterprises. Coming up we have our Kids Go Free no-questions-asked free school holiday meal provision which is a key part of our community focus.

“Keeping money in the local community is really important, and local businesses and social enterprises play a massive part in this. Our growing working lunch event catering and Outta Space Pizza create fantastic produce in Broomhouse that has the dual benefit of raising the profile of social enterprise and enabling us to reinvest the money into our services in Edinburgh’s south west. 

“We couldn’t deliver these services without the support of the community around us and, in these challenging times, that support is more important than ever before. By loving local this summer, people can discover all the amazing experiences that we have on our doorstep – while supporting local enterprises that keep millions of pounds-worth of spending in local communities.

“That support will allow us to make Edinburgh an even better place to live, work and visit.

STP Chair Professor Leigh Sparks, the leading retail academic who’s also the University of Stirling’s deputy principal, said: “Towns, villages and local places across Scotland – and the businesses that operate at their heart – are the economic and social glue of the country and our communities.

“The cost of living and the cost of doing business, though, continue to challenge both consumers and businesses.

“Local support is the common thread that helps everyone weather this and build sustainable places and communities. By choosing local – and getting behind the businesses in our communities – we will ensure the survival of shops and services. Local consumer spending generates local business spending and protects the jobs of family, friends and neighbours.

“By loving local, we will also ensure that our high streets and town centres build a fairer, more sustainable Scotland – creating even better places to live, work and visit.”

Kimberley Guthrie, STP’s Interim Chief Officer, added: “We need to begin a permanent behaviour change in thinking local first this summer, whether for shopping, days out or simply local businesses trading with each other. Choosing local is not only good for our economy and environment, but the communities these fantastic local businesses serve too.”

People across the region are also being urged to spend using the Scotland Loves Local Gift Card, ensuring the money they spend stays local for longer by directly supporting shops, attractions and jobs in the area. Businesses and charities are also being encouraged to use them as rewards.

Scotmid support for Community Connect projects

CHARITY CASH BOOST FOR DRYLAW NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

Three good causes across Edinburgh have been awarded a share of a £75,000 funding pot, thanks to Scotmid Co-operative’s Community Connect award scheme. The awards were decided by a vote of Scotmid Members.

The recipients secured the funding after being shortlisted by the community retailer to receive the lifeline financial support, helping them to continue delivering their vital work.

Upward Mobility (Upmo) received a £15,000 award, with Drylaw Telford Community Association and Beacon Club – Space & Broomhouse Hub each receiving £5,000.

Drylaw Telford Community Association, based in Northwest Edinburgh, Children, young people, adults, older people, and families are offered a varied programme of activities and The Centre is an integral asset to the local community.

One of their key projects is to provide safe and suitable activities for adults and older people suffering from loneliness and social isolation with over 150 members meeting weekly to enjoy a chat, warm refreshments, and activities.

They are supported by a dedicated worker and funding from Scotmid would be used to for activities, transport to the Centre and help with support worker costs.

Beacon Club – Space & Broomhouse Hub is based in Southwest of Edinburgh run The Beacon Club, which provide support for people suffering from Dementia. Due to an increase in demand for their services and despite opening a second facility they still have a waiting list for people to join.

Open 7 days a week, members take part in activities, enjoy a nutritious homecooked lunch and have a safe place to socialise whilst giving their carers some vital respite. Funding from Scotmid would be used for outings, events, reminiscence activities and cover volunteer costs allowing members to live life to the full.

Upward Mobility (Upmo) strive to create a more inclusive society across Edinburgh & The Lothians by supporting adults & young people who live with physical or learning disabilities, Autism or have complex healthcare needs.

They offer the students tailored support services and learning opportunities and their Outdoor Learning Project is based within Jock Tamson’s Gairden in Duddingston, where students learn to grow veg, fruit and flowers.

Funding from Scotmid will be used to build raised beds, wider accessible pathways, purchase suitable tools & equipment and help with the cost of staffing the outdoor project.

Each year, Scotmid Members vote to award a share of £150,000 Community Connect funding to six shortlisted Scottish good causes.

Left to right: Martin Hinds (Drylaw Telford Community Association), Faith Nicholson and Claire Farquhar (Upmo), Nancy Bryson and Lyn Glen (Space & Broomhouse Hub)]

US Chief of Space Operations visits British rocket company Skyrora

Last week, the first Chief of Space Operations for the United States, General John W. “Jay” Raymond, toured the facilities of Skyrora as US interest grows in the British rocket company.

The landmark visit will bolster the key space relationship between the UK and US ahead of Skyrora’s plans to be the first UK company to complete a vertical launch from home soil in 2023.

As a four-star general and the most senior military leader in charge of the US Space Force, General Raymond serves as a military advisor to the US Secretary of Defence, National Security Council, and President.

The position of Chief of Space Operations was created in December 2019, with General Raymond announced as the inaugural postholder. General Raymond’s visit took place shortly after Skyrora’s successful second stage static fire test of its orbital launch vehicle, Skyrora XL.

The test was one of the key momentum-building milestones discussed during the visit as Skyrora continues its journey to establish sovereign launch capabilities for the UK. While on site, General Raymond was able to witness the UK’s launch industry capabilities first hand.

General John Raymond, US Space Force Chief of Space Operations General, said: “Now, more than ever, international cooperation in space is critically important.

“And the proliferation of commercial space efforts helps all spacefaring nations by driving costs down. I appreciate the fantastic tour of the Skyrora facilities and the opportunity to spend time with the impressive team there.”

The UK Government’s recently released Defence Space Strategy identifies launch as a core capability within the Government’s vision to position the domestic defence sector as a global actor in the space domain. Britain has historically relied on the US’s extensive launch heritage to provide assured launch capabilities to the nation’s defence sector.

With the recent announcement from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) that Launch Collision Avoidance Analysis (LCOLA) will be carried out by the US Space Force’s 18th Space Defense Squadron, General Raymond’s visit also encourages contiguity between UK space players and the US to prioritise safe launch activity.

General Raymond visited Skyrora’s new rocket facility in Cumbernauld, the largest of its kind in the UK, where three launch vehicles are currently in production. Housing the largest hybrid 3D printer in Europe, Skyprint 2, the facility enables Skyrora to undertake more of the manufacturing of its rocket parts in the UK.

Lee Rosen, Chief Operations Officer at Skyrora, said: “General Raymond’s visit on behalf of the US Space Force has been a valuable opportunity to provide insight into Skyrora’s rapid, responsive technical capabilities – such as our mobile launch complex and third stage technology, which can contribute to several key space applications, including in-orbit spacecraft servicing and space domain awareness.

“These, combined with Skyrora’s sustainably minded focus, will enable key defence activities within space for the benefit of all.”

Volodymyr Levykin, CEO at Skyrora, said: “This visit comes at a pivotal time as we come to learn the importance of sovereign launch from the first commercial space war in Ukraine.

“Skyrora looks forward to working with the UK Government to further this alliance and achieve greater levels of investment and support for the UK space sector as we continue our laser focus of being the first UK company to conduct a vertical launch to orbit from British soil.”

National Lottery funding support for Edinburgh creative projects

Fourteen creative projects from Edinburgh artists and creative organisations are in motion thanks to £303,559 National Lottery funding in the latest round of Open Fund awards from Creative Scotland. 

The former Fire Station at Edinburgh College of Art will house Edinburgh’s SpACE forum from 1 November to 4 December as part of COP26.

The public pop-up exhibition, event space and online venue will welcome leading designers, building environmentalists, architects and heritage organisations coming together to help raise wider understanding of the difference that can be made through more responsible approaches to design and construction.  

Rab Bennetts, architect and founder of Bennetts Associates and Chair of SpACE said: “There could hardly be a more appropriate moment to engage with the public about the impact of our buildings and places on climate change.

“As the world’s eyes are on COP26 in Glasgow, our parallel event in Edinburgh can show how the changes that are essential to our homes, workplaces and public buildings are not only possible but can also result in a cleaner, healthier and more enjoyable built environment.” 

Through a series of unique, site-specific, public video projection mapping artworks with original soundscapes visual artist and creator Mettje Hunneman will highlight and transform Edinburgh’s public green spaces and question our place in nature.

 Forest VIDEOLAB will see twelve immersive audio-visual displays over twelve months encouraging audiences to reconnect with nature in new ways.  

Mettje Hunneman commented: “Artistic collaborations that would not previously have been possible can now come about, and resources that were previously inaccessible are now available.

“Everybody on the Forest VIDEOLAB team is now very excited to launch these beautiful creations into the public realm.” 

Edinburgh-based theatre company, SALTYDOLLS – a partnership of Estlin Love and Fiona Oliver-Larkin will research and develop ABATTOIR.

A 50-minute feminist, two woman show, ABATTOIR is born from a provocation made by Morag Deyes of Dance Base during a SALTYDOLLS residency – “When are you going to make a show about the DARKNESS of MOTHERHOOD?” 

Surrogate Productions will adapt and stage the Scottish and UK premiere of Édouard Louis’ autofiction novel Who Killed My Father in association with Platform Theatre in spring 2022. 

Surrogate’s Artistic Director Nora Wardell said: “We’re excited to welcome audiences back to theatres with such a moving and empowering piece that resonates so beautifully with our changing lives today.

“A rare text for Surrogate’s second work – both a deeply personal story of love from son to father and a defiant call for social justice.” 

Shortlisted for the 2020 Phil Fox Award, Nibble Nibble Gnaw is a new play by emerging Scottish playwright Isla Cowan receiving further research and development, exploring hunger and consumption in contemporary society.

Inspired by the story of Hansel and Gretel, this twisted fairy-tale follows a brother and sister as they make their way in a monstrously middle-class world, battling addiction and disorder. 

POWA (Protection of Womxn in the Arts) is a musical collective run by Ashley Stein and Siobhan Wilson which provides paid opportunities for women-identifying and non-binary musicians and music industry professionals to create new commissions and access mentorship, guidance, and professional resources.  

Co-founders Siobhan Wilson and Ashley Stein commented: “The money we have received from the Open Fund will allow us to work with a diverse range of artists and share newly commissioned musical works with our members, helping our music and message to reach a wider audience and providing a platform where women can express their experiences.” 

Following the successful release of What We Might Know in 2018, Edinburgh based band Broken Records will record their 5th studio album which will be released on their own label, J Sharp Records.  

On receiving funding Broken Records’ Iain Turnbull said: “The album is due to be released in Spring 2022, and we’re looking forward to it building on our previous work by allowing us to show our audience a different side to the band.  

“After 14 years we have a dedicated following, and this album will allow us to carry on that interaction by sharing stories and our music from a different stage of our lives to connect to what is happening in their own lives.” 

Iain Munro, CEO, Creative Scotland said: “It’s great to see so many projects continue to benefit from Open Fund awards.

“Thanks to the generosity of the National Lottery players, who raise £30 million for good causes across the UK every week, these awards are creating many invaluable opportunities for people and communities across Scotland to engage with the arts while enabling artists and creative organisations to develop and grow.” 

A full list of recipients of Open Fund awards is available on the Creative Scotland website.

Lift off! Space Bra launches countdown to the Virtual MoonWalk

The MoonWalk London is going virtual this Saturday (15th May), with the theme “Out of this World”. In a space mission like no other, a special “Space Bra” has been created to mark the occasion. 

The bra has been created by Boadicea Design in collaboration with UK Space Agency, the Association for Science and Discovery Centres and signed by astronaut Tim Peake. It is based on the Sokul Suit which is worn by astronauts going up to the International Space Station.

Tim Peake said: “There may be more in common between Walk the Walk and space than you might think.

“On the International Space Station, we have been researching cancer therapies such as microencapsulation – enabling targeted delivery for effective treatment and fewer side effects.

“Walk the Walk is a fantastic charity and I’m delighted to support them in their valuable work.”

Another fascinating coincidence is that the first spacesuits were too rigid and bulky and NASA started a search to find a solution. This was found at Playtex – producers of bras and girdles – a previous sponsor of The MoonWalk!  And so Playtex seamstresses were part of the manufacture of the softer, more flexible Apollo spacesuits which followed.  

Decorated bras are the unique and fun trade-mark of MoonWalk organisers, grant making breast cancer charity Walk the Walk and have been instrumental in the charity raising over £133 million for research and vital breast cancer causes.

At The MoonWalks women and men proudly wear decorated bras as they take on their Midnight challenges. For the Virtual MoonWalk, walkers are carrying on the tradition by decorating their bras and many will be wearing them attached to their bumbags.

The bras worn at the very start of the Walk the Walk journey were auctioned and raised a lot of money. But since then Walk the Walk has been working on a collection which can be featured in exhibitions to raise even more awareness that breast cancer is not selective and can affect anybody.

Alison ‘Bod’ Stephenson at Boadicea Design said: “As a designer and maker I have produced a number of Sokul Suit ‘replica’ costumes in partnership with UK Space Agency and Association for Science and Discovery Centres.

“These were first used to promote exhibitions in science centres across the UK when astronaut Tim Peake travelled to the International Space Station in December 2015. Taking colours and details from the Sokul Suit design, I have created the Space Bra Outfit, which has been a fun project with a serious message. I’m delighted to support Walk the Walk and help raise awareness of breast cancer.” 

Dr Alice Bunn, International Director at the UK Space Agency, said: “Collaboration is the cornerstone of space exploration and it is only by working together that we will be able to beat breast cancer.

“We’re delighted with the outfit inspired by Tim Peake’s spacesuit. Having completed The MoonWalk before, I know what an inspirational event it is and I hope as many people as possible will take part, raising vital funds and enjoying a wonderful experience.”

Shaaron Leverment, CEO (Acting) of the ASDC said: “At the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres we have a vision to support people of all ages, genders, background and experiences to be involved in the sciences.

“This one-of-a-kind Space bra is truly ‘Out of this World’ and does just that! An eye-catching design that will no doubt capture the attention and imagination of all who see it, raising awareness that breast cancer affects everybody and inspiring more people to get involved in Walk the Walk.

“We are very proud to be part of this wonderful, creative collaboration and the important message behind it.”​​​​​​​

Skyrora boosted by European Space Agency funding

Scottish-based company aims to be the first to launch from Europe, delivering UK’s sovereign launch capability

Edinburgh-based rocket company, Skyrora, has received €3 million of co-funding from the European Space Agency (ESA), ensuring that the company can complete at pace the development of its rocket technology.

The funding not only represents a significant support of Skyrora’s ambitions as a pioneer in the sector but puts it on track to be the first UK company to launch satellites from Europe, delivering the UK’s sovereign space launch capability – a key Government ambition.

The funding, which is part of the ESA’s Boost! program, will be used by Skyrora to complete the crucial technology required to deliver consistent orbital launches from the UK with Skyrora’s XL launch vehicle.

Skyrora XL is a 23-meter 56-tonne three-stage rocket capable of carrying up to 315 kg into orbit. The vehicle is on course to be test-launched in 2022 from a UK spaceport.

This project plans to create over 170 high-skilled jobs in the UK.

Skyrora is ahead of any other UK launch company with its technology readiness, evidenced by four launches of its sounding rockets, static fire tests of its suborbital vehicle, and orbital third stage. Skyrora, which has its HQ in Edinburgh, has established its comprehensive rocket engine testing and manufacturing facilities in Scotland.

Volodymyr Levykin, founder and CEO of Skyrora, said: “This ESA contract will accelerate Skyrora’s progress on its journey to be the first to achieve the UK’s sovereign orbital launch.

“I am delighted that the UK Space Agency and the European Space Agency support our programme, which has, to date, delivered outstanding achievements – four successful launches, with two more ready for launch; the establishment of manufacturing and engine test facilities throughout Scotland; and the static fire test of our orbital third stage. ESA’s support, approved by the UK Space Agency through the Boost! programme will lead us to flight readiness of Skyrora XL in 2022.

“ESA’s funding will allow us to complete the set up of our larger Engine Test Complex, complete our 70kN engine programme and static fire test fire the first and second stages of Skyrora XL.

“Our pioneering work on championing environmental spaceflight, our proprietary eco-fuel and green innovations – together with the support of the European Space Agency and UK Space Agency – will help establish the UK not only as a world leader in space technology but the greenest space industry in the world too.”

Tim Peake, the first British astronaut to visit the International Space Station and an Advisor to Skyrora, said: “Independent access to space is vital for the UK to realise the full potential of its space industry and this exciting announcement for Skyrora brings us a big step closer to achieving that goal. 

“Skyrora is bringing innovation and growth to the space sector, whilst setting new benchmarks for reducing carbon emissions. I’m delighted that ESA has awarded Skyrora this contract to support providing a new space transportation system for Europe.”

Ivan McKee, Trade and Innovation Minister said: “This is great news for Skyrora as it takes another major step in bringing green small satellite launch capability to Scotland.

“Our aim for Scotland is to secure a slice of the $400 billion global space market by 2030, remaining committed to our climate change targets and becoming a net zero society by 2045.

“The Scottish space sector is unique in that the environment is at the forefront of our considerations. Skyrora’s use of innovative technologies like this will position Scotland as the go-to destination for sustainable space services.

“Skyrora’s engine test complex in Fife will contribute to our national mission to create new jobs, good jobs and green jobs. Developing an end-to-end space economy in Scotland will support these goals and benefit the entire country through the creation of highly skilled, green employment.”

Environmental leadership

Inspired by the UK’s historic Black Arrow programme, Skyrora is combining the UK’s engineering heritage with new technologies to enable the UK to regain its leading role in space – as a champion of environmental sustainability.

The production of Ecosene, Skyrora’s proprietary eco-fuel, will remove over 3,000 tons of unrecyclable plastic waste by 2030. Skyrora has also conducted several successful trials of Space Tug which is its solution for clearing debris and removing defunct satellites from orbit, enabling the UK to become a world leader in addressing space junk.

Skyrora’s innovations are helping to establish the UK space sector as a green industry while also opening up the utility of space to tackle climate change. Space technology contributes to the attainment of 13 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Dr. Jack-James Marlow, Head of Engineering for Skyrora, said: “ESA’s funding award will enable Skyrora to significantly accelerate the pace at which we can complete the next stages on our technological roadmap and become the first UK company to launch satellites from Europe.

“We draw huge inspiration from the British engineers who led the way on the Black Arrow programme, and we are thrilled to be advancing their pioneering work at Skyrora for the benefit of the UK.”

Amanda Solloway MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science, Research and Innovation, said: “The UK’s space industry is thriving and we have bold ambitions to be Europe’s leading destination for small satellite launches, developing world class commercial spaceflight capability up and down the country. 

“Today’s funding for two of our most innovative space businesses is not only a step forward for UK spaceflight, but it will also help to create highly skilled jobs and local opportunities as we build back better from the pandemic.”

Ian Annett, Deputy CEO, UK Space Agency said: “This funding is great news for the UK space sector and will ensure companies such as Skyrora really are at the forefront of the European space industry. 

“This support to our thriving space sector, alongside our flexible regulations and strong international agreements, means the UK is well placed to benefit from the new commercial opportunities UK launch will bring.”

The Scottish Friendly Children’s virtual Book Tour unlocks support for children during lockdown

128 schools across 32 local authorities in Scotland have joined the virtual Scottish Friendly Children’s Book Tours since the start of lockdown last year, with educational video content viewed over 100,000 times.

The ‘Connected’: Space tour recently hosted five days of ‘out-of-this-world’ virtual events, telling the stories of space adventures through science fact and fiction.

The digital events took place online from Monday 22 February to Friday 26 February, with schools from Aberdeen, Argyll & Bute, East Renfrewshire, Edinburgh, Falkirk, Glasgow, Moray, Scottish Borders, South Ayrshire and West Lothian signed up for events, reaching over 750 pupils.

The events are available to watch on demand via Scottish Book Trust’s website.

The Scottish Friendly Children’s Book Tour is supported by Scottish Friendly and organised by Scottish Book Trust, the national charity transforming lives through reading and writing.

For over 20 years the tour has visited schools the length and breadth of the UK, bringing the world’s best authors directly in front of children in classrooms. Since covid-19 the tour has adapted to the restrictions and changing landscape and has gone fully digital to continue vital work in supporting children, reaching around 8,000 P1-S3 pupils.

Fun, educational video content and live events for home learning and in the classroom have to-date reached an audience of over 100,000 through the Scottish Book Trust social media, Home Activities Hub and On Demand library.

Carol Ann Neil, teacher at Bridge of Allan Primary School said: “Having the opportunity to engage with the Space Explorers event reignited the children’s enthusiasm for reading as individuals and as a class team to share stories during the pandemic.”

The Connected: Space tour featured a diverse mix of book events, including: illustrator and graphic designer Matt Carr, creator of Rocketmole; author and astronomer Dr Sheila Kanani and author Libby Jackson, one of the UK’s foremost space experts and author of book Space Explorers. 

P5-7 pupils had the opportunity to meet Dr Alastair Bruce, Dynamic Earth’s very own resident Astronomer. Joined by Alastair Chisholm, author of Orion Lost, pupils took the role of captain and decided the fate of their own space mission.

The previous tour, Connected: Polar, is now available to watch via Scottish Book Trust’s On Demand library hub. Events include Sarah Airreiss and British Antarctic Survey, live from the Antarctic and Shackleton’s Journey with William Grill and RRS Discovery, Dundee.

The next virtual Connected tour: Continents, will take place from Monday 22 March – Friday 25 March.

Pupils will have the chance to join events and meet authors live from different parts of the world including Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, North and South America.

From celebrating different cultures and languages, to exploring about mythology and magic to drawing manga, the Connected: Continents, tour is jam-packed with fun events for all the family. Schools can find out more and sign up via Scottish Book Trust’s website. Events will be available to watch later via Scottish Book Trust’s On Demand Library.

Kevin Brown, Head of PR at Scottish Friendly, said: “As soon as the pandemic hit and schools were closed, our number one priority was to provide educational and exciting content to help children, teachers and parents with engaging video content that can be viewed either via live social media streams or at a time of their choosing.”

Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust said: “Scottish Book Trust is delighted to bring the Scottish Friendly Children’s Book Tour virtually into classrooms and homes across Scotland.

“Since the pandemic started a year ago, it has been more important than ever to provide young people with engaging and exciting content.

“The Connected tours aim to transport pupils to new worlds through author events, offering opportunities to spark their creativity and imagination. The feedback from schools and families has been fantastic, and our On Demand library allows anyone to watch the tour, at any time, and no matter their location.”

Skyrora’s ‘space tug’ gives space sustainability dream a lift

SKYRORA has revealed it has conducted successful trials of a ‘space tug’ which can play a key part in ensuring the UK becomes a world leader in tackling the issue of space junk.

The Edinburgh-based rocket development company believes the Orbit Transfer Vehicle – part of its Skyrora XL rocket due to launch in 2023 – could clear debris, reposition satellites and remove defunct satellites from orbit. 

In the week that the UK and UN sign a historical agreement on space sustainability, Skyrora have thrown its support behind the initiative.

The company recently showed its own commitment towards a sustainable space industry with the launch of its space tug, which is one of many initiatives that will allow the government to meet its goals.

Its announcement comes after a directive was signed this week between the UK Science Minister and the UN to agree a new approach to sustainability in space, as well as equipping authorities with the power to act against firms responsible for creating space junk. 

The agreement commits the UK government to a series of events and outreach efforts, ultimately aimed at promoting the Guidelines for the Long-Term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities (LTS Guidelines).

Those guidelines ensure “the conduct of space activities indefinitely into the future”, an ability now under threat from the growing cloud of space debris. Developed and published by the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, the voluntary rules had come under criticism for their lack of enforcement mechanisms.

However, with the UK now actively endorsing the guidelines, there is to be increased awareness and prominence within the industry.

Skyrora is already establishing itself as a key innovator not just in the UK space race, but in ensuring it places space sustainability as a crucial element in its planning and company vision.

It has developed a new way of launching satellites without damaging the environment as well as creating an eco-friendly fuel that ensures the UK has the most environmentally friendly space industry in the world.

The latest chapter in its investment in sustainable technology – and signalling another crucial milestone for the entire UK space industry – is the successful test on an innovative “reignitable” rocket engine or space tug, capable of manoeuvring once in orbit. 

The test – at its engine development facility in Fife – involved a full mission duration static fire test (450 second burn over three firings) of the upper (or third) stage of their orbital-class vehicle, Skyrora XL.

Skyrora now believes this provides for a full mission-ready Orbital Transfer Vehicle (OTV – or space tug) that can perform a number of in-space missions once it has delivered its payload.

This includes tackling the issue of space junk by removing redundant space objects from orbit. There are around 34,000 objects above 10cm in size in Earth’s orbit that would be considered space junk – 3,000 of which are redundant satellites. Moving at around 10km/s, these objects could produce debilitating damage to operational satellites or even the International Space Station.

And as we see increasing numbers of constellations being placed into orbit, with the likes of OneWeb and SpaceX planning on sending thousands of satellites up, then as those numbers grow, so does the demand for a vehicle that can make multiple stops and functions in space without the need for multiple launches.

Skyrora CEO, Volodymyr Levykin, said: “Our goal was always to be mission ready once all the regulations and permissions were in place, and this development not only brings us closer to that point but also takes us beyond simply launch readiness.

“It’s important to show that even in these challenging times we are still a nation that continues to innovate and take the lead in some of our most lofty ambitions.

“We aim not only to conduct efficient launches from UK soil in the most environmentally friendly way, but ensure that each single launch mission has the possibility of conducting the level of work that would have historically taken multiple launches. With this approach we enter a whole new level of efficiency with full consideration of environmental impact taken into account.

We are delighted that members are discussing these matters in Parliament imminently on the 4th February and expect due attention to be made given and further action to be taken to adapt the regulations to reflect the UK’s commitment to sustainability.”

Last January, the company achieved the first ever eco liquid-fuel rocket engine ground tests take place using their own Ecosene fuel derived from unrecyclable waste plastics that would otherwise be disposed of in landfill. The fuel itself emits around 45% less greenhouse gases and is particularly suited to cope in the Scottish weather.

And Skyrora have also pioneered a bespoke Mobile Launch Complex which allows them to never leave a footprint when launching. All launch infrastructure is carried in containers, even their mobile erector, where the launch vehicles takes off from, not harming any land environments.

Mr Levykin added: “We have found a way to not only sustain our operations in orbit, but also clean up the way on how we get there.

“Thanks to our Ecosene fuel and our Mobile Launch Complex, we are not just committed to playing our part but we are committed to being responsible and responsive to the on-going threats of global climate change. This is the right way to go forward.”