Satellite technology is set to play a bigger role in everyday life as the UK supports six innovative projects for £1.5 million with new funding.
Six pioneering projects are set to leverage satellite technology and AI to transform the way the UK responds to climate change, manage its transport networks, and improve accessible travel.
The investment, delivered through the UK Space Agency’s Unlock Space business programme, aims to accelerate the adoption of space-enabled solutions in major industries.
The initiative is designed to break down barriers to commercial use of space data and has already involved more than 350 organizations.
By integrating AI with satellite insights, the programme shows how space innovation can directly support the UK’s industrial strategy and drive net zero ambitions while driving growth in the priority sector.
DSIT Minister Ian Murray explained: “These innovative projects demonstrate the transformational power of the UK space sector.
“From reducing emissions to making streets more accessible, we are supporting satellite technology and AI solutions that really make a difference in people’s lives.”
Powering the UK space sector
The funding announcement came amid a rapid expansion of the UK space industry, employing 56,000 people and generating at least £2.2 billion in investment and revenue in 2024/25.
The new project aims to create exportable solutions that not only reduce emissions and increase accessibility, but also strengthen the UK’s role as a leader in sustainable space-responsive technologies.
Environmentally friendly delivery with smarter space data
Ether Capital develops carbon risk dashboards for the shipping industry and integrates satellite tracking technology with AI.
The platform provides real-time insight into vessel emissions, enabling shipping operators, insurance companies and investors to comply with regulatory tightening.
The system is expected to accelerate eco-friendly practices in maritime finance while reducing investment risks.
Cutting the carbon of the railway
Thanks to Furrer+Frey, rail electrification could be faster and more affordable. Its new satellite-powered design tools identify railway assets and generate optimized electrification plans.
By automating complex design processes, innovation reduces planning times, reduces costs, and makes it more efficient with UK railway decarbonization.
Navigation for visually impaired people
Accessibility is another focus of the program. MakeSense technology applies Earth observation data to create a high-precision navigation system for visually impaired travelers.
The tool allows users to generate safe walking routes on demand, increasing independence while supporting the nationwide deployment of the platform.
Use space data to promote sustainable funding
Several projects are directed at transforming the financial sector. Howden and Rebalance Earth uses satellite intelligence to improve biodiversity and environmental risk assessments and enhance investor climate-related disclosures.
Similarly, Foresight Group transforms space data into actionable insights into climate and natural risks, enabling more responsible and sustainable investment decisions.
Dr Craig Brown, Investment Director for the UK Space Agency, added: “These projects demonstrate how the UK space sector is using satellite data and AI to deliver real-world impacts to tackle climate change, decarbonisation and accessibility improvements.
“By supporting innovation in sectors that have not traditionally used space technology, it will help unlock new economic opportunities and build a more sustainable and inclusive future.
UK global opportunities
Each of these projects addresses important gaps that are either limited or costly on the ground.
By combining AI and satellite technology, the UK is at the forefront of scalable solutions that can be deployed globally.
From greener transport to sustainable finance, these innovations highlight the important role of space in addressing climate change and unlocking new economic opportunities.
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