Airbus Launchpad Opens in Stevenage to Support UK Space SMEs with £3.9 Million Investment
The Airbus Launchpad has been established at Airbus Defence and Space's site in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, to aid small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK space sector. Backed by a £3.9 million investment from the UK Space Agency, matched by Airbus, the facility offers free access to laboratories and testing spaces for over 50 users.
This initiative aims to enhance the UK space supply chain and foster homegrown capabilities. Three companies, Applied Atomics, Spintex, and Stars Edge, are set to utilize the facility starting in February 2024.
The UK space sector is valued at £18.6 billion, highlighting its significance to the economy. The launchpad is part of Airbus' Community for Space Prosperity programme, which promotes research and innovation within the space industry.
