Six new projects have received £1.5 million in funding from the UK Space Agency to use satellite technology and artificial intelligence (AI) for tackling climate change, transforming transport, and improving accessibility across the UK
The funding is part of the Unlocking Space for Business programme, which aims to bring space-enabled solutions to sectors that have traditionally not used space technology. These projects are expected to drive sustainable development and accelerate the path to net zero, while also creating new economic opportunities in the UK’s growing space sector.
Smarter shipping with emissions monitoring
Ether Capital is developing a real-time carbon risk dashboard for the maritime sector. By combining satellite tracking with advanced AI, the system will enable shipping companies, financiers, and insurers to monitor vessel emissions and comply with global environmental regulations. Overall, this supports the transition into cleaner shipping and encourages investment in greener maritime solutions.
Cutting down rail electrification costs and time
Furrer+Frey, in partnership with Airbus Defence & Space, is creating a tool that can fast-track railway electrification planning. Using satellite imagery and AI, the tool will identify rail assets and produce optimised electricity designs. The results will include faster project delivery, lower costs, and reduced carbon emissions, all of which contribute to a cleaner transport infrastructure.
Safer navigation for visually impaired pedestrians
MakeSense Technology utilises Earth observation data to create safe and precise walking routes tailored explicitly for blind and visually impaired users. The system enables greater independence and spontaneity in travel, offering accessible, real-time route suggestions that are both safe and easy to follow. This innovation is expected to be scaled nationally, improving mobility for thousands.
Better climate risk assessment for investors
Two of the funded projects aim to boost the financial sector’s ability to assess climate and biodiversity risks:
- Foresight Group, working in collaboration with Frontierra, will transform satellite data into actionable financial insights. This will help investors better understand climate and nature-related risks across portfolios.
- Rebalance Earth, in partnership with Treeconomy, is developing a tool to assess nature-based carbon projects, including reforestation initiatives. The system will enhance decision-making for sustainable investments by using satellite-driven landscape assessments.
Tracking biodiversity for better insurance decisions
Howden is developing a satellite-based system for insurers and businesses to track changes in land use and biodiversity. This will support compliance with new environmental regulations and help institutions manage nature-related risks more effectively.
Developed in collaboration with PCI Geomatics Enterprises UK Ltd, the tool is designed to integrate biodiversity insights into risk models.
Innovation and economic growth
Each of the six projects addresses a unique challenge where traditional data sources are limited or costly. The integration of satellite technology with AI provides practical and scalable solutions that can be deployed both in the UK and internationally.
The Unlocking Space for Business programme has already engaged over 350 organisations, and it’s part of the Unlocking Space initiative by the UK Space Agency. In the last financial year, these programmes helped create more than £2.2 billion in investment and revenue for the UK’s space industry.
