5 January 2012 – UKspace welcomes the announcement by David Willetts MP the Minister of State for Science and Universities that the Technology Strategy Board will establish a Satellite Applications Catapult Centre. The Catapult Centre will enable the space industry to create many new products and services by the exploitation of satellite technology and will be an important tool in helping the UK to remain at the forefront of technological innovation and deliver the economic growth and jobs set out in the Space innovation and Growth Strategy. We believe the SatApps Catapult Centre will be to join up our world-leading academic research base and our world-class satellite manufacturing industry, with the diverse range of applications and services by exploiting the data and services from satellites in telecommunications, navigation, security, earth observation and climate.

Ruy Pinto, Chairman UKspace, said: “I am delighted by this news which will allow the space industry to continue to contribute strongly to the growth of the UK economy. The Centre will provide the focus and incentive for the UK to achieve its potential in an expanding global marketplace, driving innovation in the provision of vital products and services, at the same time as sustaining and growing jobs in our industry. UKspace stands ready to help the Technology Strategy Board in any way with the speedy implementation of the Centre, which is a superb vote of confidence in our industry.”