Satellite technology is set to play a bigger role in everyday life as the UK backs six innovative projects with £1.5m in new funding.
Six pioneering projects are set to harness satellite technology and AI to transform the way Britain responds to climate change, manages transport networks, and improves accessible travel.
The investment, delivered through the UK Space Agency’s Unlocking Space for Business programme, aims to accelerate the adoption of space-enabled solutions across key industries.
The initiative is designed to break down barriers to commercial use of space data and has already engaged more than 350 organisations.
By integrating AI with satellite insights, the programme demonstrates how space innovation can directly support the UK’s Industrial Strategy, driving growth in priority sectors while advancing net zero ambitions.
DSIT Minister Ian Murray explained: “These innovative projects showcase the transformative power of Britain’s space sector.
“From reducing emissions to making our streets more accessible, we’re backing the satellite technology and AI solutions that really make a difference to people’s lives.”
Powering the UK’s space sector
The funding announcement comes amid rapid expansion in the UK’s space industry, which employs 56,000 people and generated at least £2.2bn in investment and revenue in 2024/25.
The new projects aim not only to cut emissions and boost accessibility but also to create exportable solutions that strengthen Britain’s role as a leader in sustainable, space-enabled technologies.
Greener shipping through smarter space data
Ether Capital will pioneer a carbon risk dashboard for the shipping industry, integrating satellite tracking technology with AI.
The platform will provide real-time insights into vessel emissions, enabling shipping operators, insurers, and financiers to comply with tightening regulations.
The system is expected to accelerate greener practices in maritime finance while reducing investment risk.
Cutting carbon on the railways
Rail electrification could also become faster and more affordable thanks to Furrer+Frey. Its new satellite-powered design tool will identify railway assets and generate optimised electrification plans.
By automating complex design processes, the innovation will reduce planning times, lower costs, and make the UK’s rail decarbonisation drive more efficient.
Navigation for the visually impaired
Accessibility is another focus of the programme. MakeSense Technology will apply Earth observation data to create a high-precision navigation system for visually impaired travellers.
The tool will allow users to generate safe walking routes on demand, enhancing independence while supporting the nationwide rollout of the platform.
Driving sustainable finance with space data
Several projects are geared towards transforming the financial sector. Howden and Rebalance Earth will use satellite intelligence to improve biodiversity and environmental risk assessments, strengthening climate-related disclosures for investors.
Similarly, Foresight Group will convert space data into actionable insights on climate and nature risks, enabling more responsible, sustainable investment decisions.
Dr Craig Brown, Investment Director at the UK Space Agency, added: “These projects show how the UK’s space sector is delivering real-world impact, using satellite data and AI to tackle climate change, decarbonise transport, and improve accessibility.
“By supporting innovation in sectors that haven’t traditionally used space technology, we’re unlocking new economic opportunities and helping to build a more sustainable, inclusive future.
Britain’s global opportunity
Each of these projects tackles critical gaps where terrestrial data is either limited or costly.
By combining AI and satellite technology, the UK is positioning itself at the forefront of scalable solutions that can be deployed globally.
From greener transport to sustainable finance, these innovations underline the vital role of space in addressing climate change and unlocking new economic opportunities.
