National Space Technology Programme - GOV.UK

National Space Technology Programme

NSTP is a capability programme encouraging thedevelopment of space technology in the UK space sector

UK SPACE AGENCY NATIONAL SPACE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMME

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CONTENTSPROGRAMME OVERVIEW

Introduction 3

Developing Space Technology in The UK 4

Overview of Funding Types 5

CASE STUDIES

A Space Recycling Plant To Reduce Orbital Debris - GEI; The University of The West of England

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Developing the UK’s Space Supply Chain Low Cost Stepper Motor Gearbox (SMG); Pathfinder; Reliance Precision Ltd

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Novel Laser Steering Mechanism (NLSM); GEI; SpaceMech 10

BIFEP - A Beam Induced Fluorescence Diagnostic Device for EP Thrusters - Pathfinder; AVS – Added Value Solutions

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Innovations in Space-Based Positioning, Navigation and Timing – Fast Tracks; National Physical Laboratory

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Development of a Non-Metallic Liquid Propellant Tank; Fast Track; Haydale

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High-Resolution Anthropogenic Pollution Imager (HAPi) - Flagship; Thales Alenia Space

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NSTP EVALUATION

Scope and Summary of findings 16

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Introduction

Space technology is critical in providing UK citizens and businesses with the public infrastructure and security necessary to underpin societal and economic wellbeing.

The National Space Technology Programme (NSTP) launched in 2011 as a result of the Space Innovation and Growth Strategy’s recommendation to “increase the UK’s returns from Europe by continuing to grow the UK’s contributions to European Space Agency (ESA) programmes and securing greater influence in large European-funded programmes.”

NSTP exists to develop space technology and capabilities, underpinning growth in the UK economy, as set out in the UK Civil Space Strategy. A central aim of the programme is to sufficiently de-risk technologies to become commercially attractive propositions. We are ensuring that future space technologies are investigated, understood and nurtured.

New partnerships forged through NSTP funding have helped organisations of all

shapes and sizes to capture new business and enabled companies to position themselves for further funding and investment opportunities. NSTP has also helped established companies to move into the space sector, directly contributing to the national space growth agenda.

There have been two comprehensive evaluations of the NSTP to date. The first was completed and published on our website in November 2014. The second was completed and published in July 2018; a summary of which is published at the back of this booklet which I encourage you to read. The full, final reports of both evaluations are freely available on www.gov.uk/ukspaceagency.

The activities described in this document provide just a taster of some of the projects that we have funded across the 5 technology areas and 4 NSTP funding streams, of which you can find more detail in the following chapter.

For more information on the National Space Technology Programme, please contact the team on [email protected].

Dr. Chris CastelliDirector of Programmes - UK Space Agency

mailto:[email protected]


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Developing Space Technology in The UK

The National Space Technology Programme is a capability programme encouraging the development of the space technology sector in the UK.

The UK Space Agency’s aim is to drive growth into the UK economy, supporting the development of space technology and skills as embodied in the UK Space Innovation and Growth Strategy (Space IGS).

NSTP offers support by funding industry, academia and other (not for profit) institutions who are looking to develop technology and build capabilities for the UK space sector, offering funding for organisations of all sizes, from start-ups to those more established on projects both large and small to contribute to the growth of the UK economy. Collaboration between organisations is strongly encouraged. The programme funds projects across 5 themes through the 4 funding types outlined on the next page.

Access to SpaceTypical activities might include but are not limited to: Space-plane/Reusable launch systems; Small satellite launcher and Sub-orbital spaceplanes; Small and nano platform technologies; Inter-orbital transfer capability; fuel and propellant technologies.

SensingTypical activities might include but are not limited to: Detectors – UV/visible, IR and X-ray; Optical systems and Lidar; Microwave sensing systems – active and passive; In-situ instruments; Down-stream technologies and Earth observation applications.

Position, Navigation & TimingTypical activities might include but are not limited to: quantum precision; clocks and timing mechanisms; securing and exploiting navigation systems for increased security. RF electronic equipment including, navigation.

Robotics & ExplorationTypical activities might include but are not limited to: autonomous vehicles; Robotic Manipulators; Novel Power Technologies; Robotic Support of Manned Exploration; robotic control; rendezvous and docking.

TelecommunicationsTypical activities might include but are not limited to: Turnkey satellite systems; Spacecraft platform, structure and composites; Payload systems capability; Satellite Network Operations, Business Support Systems, Services and Applications; RF electronic equipment including telecoms, communications for science and exploration missions.


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Overview of Funding Types

NSTP Funding Opportunities

GEI

Grants for Exploratory Ideas (GEI) £10k maximum funding for 3 month duration

Pathfinders

Pathfinders £75k maximum funding for 6 month duration

Fast Track

Fast Track £200k maximum funding for 12 month duration

Flagship

Flagship £1m maximum funding for 24 month duration

For more information please refer to the Missions and Programmes on www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ukspace-agency

www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-space-agency

CAS

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A Space Recycling Plant To Reduce Orbital DebrisThe University of The West of EnglandGEI

Space Debris is a topic of growing concern as the space industry evolves. Many solutions have been proposed for this problem, however most focus on de-orbiting debris or moving it to a graveyard orbit. Instead, repurposing and reprocessing this debris provides a potentially self-sustaining and cheaper method for satellite decommissioning. It also allows for the start of a stockpile of valuable materials to feed into the upcoming space manufacturing sector.

The aim of this project was to investigate the feasibility of a space-based recycling factory for end of life satellites, launch vehicles, and other debris. This investigation was carried out through the research of existing material and creation of simulated models to explore proposed concepts.

Solutions proposed include robotic arms and modular tooling for disassembly, rotating drum-based drawer systems for storage, inductive melting and quadrupole field-based shaping of debris for processing, and a goal of producing wire or rod-based form factors.

This research could benefit the UK space sector by providing a building blocks to realising a space-based recycling factory for orbital debris removal, which aligns with UN initiatives for long-term sustainability of outer space activities.

It also allows the UK to play a significant role in the development of the upcoming space manufacturing industry and could allow it to influence policy decisions made.

The creation of a simulation for satellite degradation, and the modelling of the behaviour from a magnetohydrodynamics and fluid dynamics perspective of molten metals in a vacuum and microgravity environment would also be of use to further development and investigation.

A number of experiments were proposed in the results of this project that could yield valuable data for the construction of a series of technical demonstrators on Earth for the components of the proposed factory.


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Developing the UK’s Space Supply Chain Low Cost Stepper Motor Gearbox (SMG)Reliance Precision LtdPathfinder

ReliancePrecision Limited

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Innovation in space technologyGear specialist, Reliance Precision, and the UK Space Agency invest in the development of a new motor gearbox for space.

SMG for satellite mechanismsSSTL, the world’s leading manufacturer of small satellites, provides key product requirements.

BenefitsA British company with a world class product design, offering new options to the space market for high vacuum motor actuators. For more information see www.reliance.co.uk/space.

Thanks to Reliance Precision Ltd and SSTL/Equinox Graphics for the use of the photographs.

www.reliance.co.uk/space


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A Stepper Motor Gearbox (SMG) is a device used to provide controlled movement, in this case within the communications system of an Earth observation satellite. The system enables the Earth observation data, captured by the satellite, to be communicated from the satellite back to Earth by tracking ground stations. The data is then used for disaster monitoring, agriculture, forestry and urban planning, and for security and surveillance.

UK engineering skills developmentThe project is led by one of Reliance’s mechanical engineers under the iMechE development scheme for professional chartership, with Reliance apprentices working as part of the manufacturing team.

UK SME industrial teamReliance is supported by UK SMEs: EKD (motor design consultant) and iNetic (motor manufacturer).

Successful product supplyThe NSTP3 programme results in supply of a new SMG to SSTL for use in space mechanisms for Earth observation satellites.


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Novel Laser Steering Mechanism (NLSM)SpaceMech GEI

The aim of this NSTP2 Exploratory IdeasStudy was to establish a radically new design concept for laser steering mechanisms (required for LIDAR’s and laser communications), using a novel optomechanical configuration and new flexural element technology, to provide full (about all three axes) passive isolation from on board micro-vibration emissions.

In the past this approach has only been used for sophisticated instruments that have a very limited field of view. This design concept is aimed at providing a very wide field of view (ideally full hemispherical coverage) and implemented in a very cost effective manner.

Confidence in the feasibility of the concept was to be provided by generating a detailed CAD model to illustrate the design and performing basic design analysis. After establishing the preferred baseline concept, some additional bread-boarding activities were performed to provide confidence in the design concept. Initially, a review of potential applications was performed and a target specification identified. Following this, a number of potential implementation options were explored and a reference design established.

This was then optimised and evaluated using a conventional analytical approach coupled with extensive rapid prototyping of critical components including damping elements and flexures, making extensive use of additive layer manufacturing. This approach enabled a high level of design confidence to be achieved for the most critical components at low cost. This radical development approach was successfully applied to subassembly bread-boarding resulting in the production of full size working breadboards of the two main subassemblies.

The subsequent functional and characterisation tests have fully vindicated the novel design approach and the results show a very good correlation between predicted and achieved mechanical and dynamic performances.

SpaceMech are now seeking the help of an industrial partner that has the required resources to exploit the potential of the concept as identified in this study.


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BIFEP - A Beam Induced Fluorescence Diagnostic Device for EP ThrusterAdded Value Solutions Pathfinder

BIFEP investigated a new diagnostic device to characterise the performance of Electric Propulsion (EP) devices under long-duration tests without disturbing the beam exiting the thruster. The Beam Induced Fluorescence (BIF) technique, while new in the context of EP measurements, has strong heritage in the particle accelerator community, where AVS has developed a range of diagnostic systems since 2006.

This project focused on the preliminary feasibility evaluation of this measurement technique for electric thrusters and was supported by 3 key activities: (i) theory and modelling of the collisional-radiative processes, (ii) evaluation of the technology constraints versus the measurement requirements, and (iii) establishment of the technical design requirements of the final diagnostic system and estimated development cost / effort. These activities were performed by a collaboration between AVS UK and Surrey Space Centre (SSC).The BIFEP concept offers a feasible method of non-invasive diagnostics to characterise the plumes of EP thrusters.

Potential advantages over contemporary methods include its applicability to a wide range of EP thruster types, non-invasive nature and short acquisition times. BIFEP has allowed AVS UK to acquire new skills in EP and acted as a precursor to follow-on developments in diagnostics and thrusters. These include the development of an onboard in-orbit EP diagnostic system that will be tested at ESTEC (ESA) with a mini Gridded Ion Engine; and an upgrade of the current SSC thrust balance.

NSTP funding provided the financial support to enable a full investigation of the BIFEP concept. There are a number of benefits to AVS UK attributable to the project including plans for follow-up work such as ORBITA: an in-orbit diagnostic system, expansion of the company (one new employee), and reaffirmation of the strategic plans of AVS to grow the business at the Harwell campus. The project brought a number of benefits to SSC including the training of a research assistant, increased familiarity with collisional-radiative models, and the acquired capability to extract plasma information from emission spectra.


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Innovations in Space-Based Positioning, Navigation and TimingNational Physical Laboratory Fast Track

Once installed on the International Space Station (ISS), ESA’s ACES mission payload will demonstrate the laser-cooled caesium and active hydrogen maser space clocks, as well as a new high performance microwave link.

The aim of the project was to develop preliminary algorithms for analysing data from this link, once ACES is launched, in order to measure the time and frequency difference between the space clocks and advanced clocks on the ground, and in so doing evaluate the capabilities of these new technologies for future space-based navigation systems.

Preliminary analysis algorithms have been mainly developed for one-way code transfer between the space clocks and a ground clock connected to an ACES microwave link ground terminal. Although the signal carrier-

phase would enable lower uncertainties, the emphasis in this work was on the code-phase. Early stage ACES data simulations were investigated for use in testing the analysis algorithms.

This NSTP2 project has benefited the UK greatly in developing a framework of algorithms for use with the ACES microwave link code signals to be able to compare the space and ground clocks to a level of 20 picoseconds.

Although further developments of the software are still required before the launch of ACES, including on the two-way time and frequency transfer, and to achieve higher precision, the 1 year project has enabled the UK to rapidly develop a capability upon which more detailed tools can be built, for evaluating these new space-based technologies.


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Development of a Non-Metallic Liquid Propellant TankHaydale Fast Track

Haydale Composite Solutions have embarked on the development of a nonmetallic liquid propellant storage tank, primarily for use on Low Earth Orbit (L.E.O.) satellites, with an initial objective of Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4.

This was motivated by the need to reduce costs and long lead times and increase the supply chain options, all of which are factors affecting the current supply of existing metallic tanks.

Structural Carbon composites are also ideal for the delivery of increased levels of demisability in LEO spacecraft systems. Demisability is the requirement that such spacecraft are reliably destroyed on re-entry, to prevent unacceptable risks to life or property on the ground or at sea.

This concept can be made using materials and processes which are conventional in the fibre reinforced composite component industry.

A preferred concept design for the tank has been identified, initial design calculations

have hence been conducted, which combined with the outcome of the propellant compatibility testing shows that production of a non-metallic propellant storage tank is feasible.

Coupon-level screening tests have been performed with three propellants (Hydrazine, LMP-103S and HAN), which are showing positive short-term compatibility results with liquid propellants currently in common use in the industry, as well as those anticipated to become more commonly used.

In consideration of the positive outcome of this initial phase of development, recommendations for further development of this technology, have been made.

A more comprehensive development and test campaign will be required to explore production and inspection methodologies, verify and build on the initial data and further demonstrate the material properties over the intended lifetime.


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High-Resolution Anthropogenic Pollution Imager (HAPI)Thales Alenia Space Flagship

The OmniSat-HAPI constellation is a conceptual mission design for high spatial and temporal resolution NO2 monitoring, which could provide a globally exploitable commercial data service. The primary objective of this 2-year NSTP Flagship project was to design, build and test an airborne demonstrator of the High-Resolution Anthropogenic Pollution Imager (HAPI) instrument, which provides high resolution observations of atmospheric NO2, taking the instrument concept to TRL 5.

The flexibility and novelty of the design of the HAPI instrument means that it can easily be adapted to detect other gases relevant to air quality monitoring. The small size of the instrument means that it can be optimised for accommodation on a micro satellite such as OmniSat. The HAPI instrument design is compatible with the OmniSat platform and this project will assess the performance of the instrument on a constellation of OmniSats to inform the performance, cost and capability of the envisioned data service.

The accuracy of the innovative OmniSat- HAPI constellation along with unparalleled revisit times and high spatial resolutions across large areas would represent a significant and key step change in current technology with the ability to facilitate crucial and necessary advancements in the monitoring, regulation and reduction of harmful emissions. It can also deliver the performance required in both institutional and commercial scenarios to deliver real benefit to society and a significant return on investment.

Significantly, the OmniSat design concept has also been presented at an internal Thales Alenia Space Decision Review 0 (DR0) company level review, a fundamental and necessary initial acceptance of the technology into the Thales Alenia Space company product lifecycle.

Acceptance into the company product policy confirms the importance and uniqueness of the product being led by the UK and secures company level backing for further development.

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Scope and Summary of Findings

The UK Space Agency commissioned Technopolis to evaluate the NSTP, focusing on its second round of funding (NSTP2, projects launched between 2014-2016). The objectives of the evaluation were to assess the benefit and impacts of the programme, its value for money (costs vs benefits), and the processes by which it has been delivered and implemented, all of which have been covered extensively in the full report.

It is important to note that most NSTP2 projects had only recently concluded (or were still ongoing) at the time of this evaluation. Therfore, some of the core intentions of the programme (e.g. supporting entry to / expansion within institutional and commercial space markets) are only expected to be realised in the months and years after project conclusion. As such, findings are only preliminary at this stage. The infographic opposite highlights some of the key findings which came out of the evaluation.

• Most participants believe their NSTP2 project has increased the visibility and reputation of their organisation within the space sector (both to potential partners and funders)

• Most also believe it has improved their prospects within space markets, by increasing their attractiveness to funders and increasing the likelihood of securing contracts

• Most lead organisations report their NSTP2 grant has de-risked their project for further investment, including in most cases a reduction in costs and time to market for their idea/technology

• Nearly all lead organisations believe their NSTP2 project may generate additional revenue for their organisation (for most the probability is ‘high’ or ‘very high’). This is a strongly positive outcome, given that a certain level of project failure is expected when exploring early stage ideas and technologies

The full document can be accessed via the UK Government web-pages:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/evaluation-of-the-national-spacetechnology- programme-nstp

The UK Space Agency would like to thank: All of the organisations and participants that contributed to this evaluation, Neil Brown Cristina Rosemberg, Fraser Macleod, Charlotte Glass & Paul Simmonds of Technopolis |group| United Kingdom for their time and effort in compiling their report on behalf of the UK Space Agency.

www.technopolis-group.com

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/evaluation-of-the-national-space-technology-programme-nstp

http://www.technopolis-group.com


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UK Space Agency

The UK Space Agency leads the UK efforts to explore and benefit from space. It works to ensure that our investments in science and technology bring about real benefit to the UK and to our everyday lives. The Agency is responsible for all strategic decisions on the UK civil space programme. As part of the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, the UK Space Agency helps realise the government’s ambition to grow our industry’s share of the global space market to 10% by 2030.

The UK Space Agency:

• supports the work of the UK space sector, raising the profile of space activities at home and abroad.

• helps increase understanding of our place in the universe, through science and exploration and its practical benefits.

• inspires the next generation of UK scientists and engineers.

• regulates and licences the launch and operation of UK spacecraft, launch operators and spaceports.

• promotes co-operation and participation in the European Space Agency and with our international partners.

V2 Published December 2018. Designed and printed by UKRI’s internal service provider.

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