- The UK Space Agency has signed an agreement with Axiom Space to potentially send UK astronauts on a commercially sponsored space mission.
- The mission would focus on scientific research, technology demonstrations, and education and outreach activities.
October 25, 2023, United Kingdom — In a significant step forward for the UK’s space endeavors, the UK Space Agency has formalized its partnership with Axiom Space, a Houston-based space company. This collaborative agreement aims to send UK astronauts on a future Axiom Space mission.
Under this accord, the astronauts will embark on a journey to space for up to two weeks. During their stay in orbit, they are set to conduct scientific research, showcase new technologies, and engage in education and outreach activities. This mission aligns with the UK government’s National Space Strategy and the UK Science and Technology Framework, pinpointing five key technologies: Artificial Intelligence, engineering biology, future telecommunications, semiconductors, and quantum technologies.
George Freeman MP, Minister of State at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, emphasized the potential of this collaboration, stating: “The prospect of a historic UK mission with Axiom Space has the potential to inspire a whole new generation to reach for the stars… We want to put the UK at the forefront of the global race for commercial space investment… and bring the benefits back to people and businesses across the country.”
Echoing the sentiment, Axiom Space CEO, Michael Suffredini said, “Axiom Space is looking forward to working with the UK Space Agency on a future human spaceflight mission. Together, we will look to harness the benefits of microgravity and help push the boundaries of innovation to advance our civilization.”
To fuel this mission with innovative ideas, the UK Space Agency is inviting UK-based universities, research institutions, and industry partners to propose experiments and technology demonstrations to be performed by the crew. Moreover, they are seeking input from UK entities for a national space education and public engagement program, emphasizing the vast range of rewarding space sector careers and the overarching influence of space on UK citizens’ lives.
Dr. Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, commented on the agreement’s potential, “This agreement paves the way for UK astronauts to conduct scientific research in orbit… There is much to do, and this agreement is the springboard for the UK Space Agency, Axiom Space, and the mission sponsors 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 UK Space Agency’s collaboration with Axiom Space is also backed by the European Space Agency (ESA), with Daniel Neuenschwander, Director of Human and Robotic Exploration at ESA, noting the unique research opportunities this mission offers for Europe.
Dr. Alice Bunn, UK Space President, summed up the significance of the partnership, saying that the agreement “provides the potential to extend the already significant innovation that our UK space sector is spearheading.”
