Space Bridge alliance delivers new mapping tool

A new space supply chain mapping tool has been announced by the UK’s Satellite Applications Catapult, Australia’s SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) and the UK Government, showcasing the capabilities of the burgeoning space sector in both regions.

Development was enabled by the Space Bridge alliance between the two nations, designed to boost their respective space industries. The tool will also identify opportunities for further collaboration and growth.

The new space and supply chain mapping tool has been built within the existing UK Space Capabilities Catalogue (UKSCC) and extended to develop an International Comparison Dashboard with a current focus on Australia.

To mark the second anniversary of the Space Bridge, the Dashboard will be launched at the 2023 Avalon Airshow at the UK Pavilion on Wednesday, 1 March at 09:15 am, alongside representatives from the UK Government, Satellite Applications Catapult and SmartSat CRC.

The Dashboard aims to identify potential gaps in either market that could be addressed by foreign direct investment and export opportunities. It is also designed to stimulate new opportunities for organisations, industries and researchers across nations to collaborate on potential projects and programs and to attract international customers and end users.

“We are very excited to work with Satellite Applications Catapult to help develop this new capability,” said Andy Koronios, CEO of SmartSat CRC.

“It symbolises our strong commitment in delivering next-generation technologies and innovative projects that will contribute to and support the goal of both Australia and the UK in accelerating our space industries. This also embarks an exciting chapter for both nations in uncovering new, major growth opportunities for several key sectors including the supply chain, driving broader economic gains as well as boosting our alliances that will be valuable in achieving our long-term objectives.”

The next phase of the project, including its expansion to add new countries and partners, as well as showcase its benefits and future implementation, will be discussed at the event.

The International Comparison Dashboard can also be viewed online here.

Image: CEO of SmartSat CRC Professor Andy Koronios and Industry Director SmartSat CRC Sarah Cannard reviewing the International Dashboard.