Collaborations for a sustainable space future
Sustainable space industry: can we shape a responsible future?
The excitement of exploring space has always pushed us to innovate and reach the unknown. But as we move forward, it’s clear we need to think about how we explore space responsibly.
We must consider:
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How can we reduce the harm space exploration might cause to Earth and space?
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Can new technologies help make space activities more sustainable?
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What can be done to prevent space debris from cluttering up orbits?
These questions help us understand that being careful about how we explore space is vital.
This goes beyond just cleaning up, though. Sustainability in space isn't just about reducing waste. It also involves thinking about how everyone can benefit from space and how to protect other planets we might visit.
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What rules should we follow when we plan to explore?
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How can countries work together to make space exploration safe for everyone?
Read now: Plextek latest innovation in the field of in-orbit space operations and sensing
In their technical paper titled "Sensing in Space" Plextek showcases groundbreaking mmWave radar technology, designed to improve the safety and reliability of future space and satellite missions.
Technology, teamwork & shared goals
Tech innovations and working together globally are key to exploring space without causing harm. We’re talking about new, cleaner ways to launch satellites and making sure they can be safely removed after their missions.
As we explore more of space, the choices we make – from the technologies we develop to the way we work together – can help ensure a sustainable future in space exploration.
At Plextek, we're actively confronting the sustainable space operations challenge, with an emphasis on the critical issue of orbital debris. Our collaborations with ClearSpace and other key industry players is in the pursuit of using advanced technology for a clean and safe space environment.
Aligning expertise and custom technology
Through partnerships, we aim to improve in-orbit servicing and debris elimination capabilities. We have a reputation of innovation in this sector, and an advanced technical skill bases to develop sustainable space practises and support proactive Active Debris Removal (ADR) and In-Orbit Servicing (IOS) systems.
A key strength for Plextek is in the sensing domain, with a particular focus on radio-based solutions for radiolocation and radionavigation. Over the last decade, Plextek has developed more than fifty radars for all manner of object detection, tracking and even classification. Plextek has taken this wealth of design heritage and IP, applied it to the space domain and achieved a high level of early mission success.
At Plextek, our plans for making space a tidier place includes innovative partnerships. Our ambitions are not just to reach for the stars; we're also doing a bit of housekeeping up there, addressing the issue of space debris which, could use our immediate attention.
Bringing expertise together for a cleaner space, such as with ClearSpace, allows us to start to tackle the clutter orbiting our Earth. We want to sharpen the focus on in-orbit servicing and the safe removal of space debris. By pooling our technological expertise, we can not only advance the UK's stance in ADR and IOS but to set a sustainable path forward for space operations.
The importance of prototyping stages
Due to the uniqueness of space, you can’t easily send up a maintenance engineer when something goes wrong, there is an incredible attention to quality and reliability throughout the whole design, development, production and validation process. Plextek has also embedded these principles starting right at the earliest modelling and simulation stages including radar behavioural modelling and target object characterisation. These can be integrated into whole-system models for design proving before anything is built.
Plextek can support all prototyping stages; early breadboard, flatsat and engineering model, before embarking on the lengthy test and validation procedures needed before delivering final flight models.
Navigating the challenges of space with high-end Tech
Plextek is known for creating custom solutions, designed to handle the complex challenges of space. Take, for example, our mmWave technology platform, a prime showcase of our capability to create advanced radar technologies for precise manoeuvres and collision avoidance in space—a place where the usual rules don't quite apply.
We are leading advancements in radar solutions, signal processing techniques, and ensuring our technology can withstand the harsh environment of space. Our mission is twofold: to continue providing cutting-edge technology and to align with the UK's vision for a booming space industry.
We actively participate in events and conferences, supporting organisations like the Satellite Application Catapult, UK Space Agency, and the European Space Agency (ESA) and more. Our award winning mmWave radar technology improves the safety and efficiency of businesses operating across complex environments such as Satellites & Space.
Extending an invitation to collaborate
Space innovation is a team sport! We're keen on joining forces with professionals and organisations who are as passionate about space technology as we are. Our doors (and inboxes) are open for discussions on projects and challenges in the space industry.
For those ready to discuss projects or explore ideas, get in touch. You can find me, Richard Jacklin, on LinkedIn or just drop us a line through Plextek's website.
Who knows? Together, we might just make space a little less cluttered and a lot more sustainable.
At Plextek, we're more than engineers; we're partners in your space exploration journey. Together we create solutions that don't just meet expectations but redefine them. Contact us, and let’s get started.
For more information and collaboration inquiries, reach out to us at Plextek – where innovation meets ambition in the pursuit of a sustainable space future.
Plextek is an award-winning technology innovation company, making waves with its mmWave radar technology and contribution to space sustainability.
For further exploration, visit our website or connect with us on LinkedIn.
techUK - Breakthroughs in Satellite Connectivity
techUK’s Breakthroughs in Satellite Connectivity campaign is our showcase of the opportunities and benefits created by the latest advances in satellite technology.
During this campaign, techUK will run a regular drumbeat of activity, including videos, reports, and insights, to demonstrate some of the most exciting satellite innovations.
Visit our Campaign Week hub to learn more, or find our latest activity below.
Upcoming digital connectivity events:
North West Telecoms Showcase – Accelerating growth and connectivity across the region
Liverpool John Moores University Exhibition
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Contact the team
Jaynesh Patel
Jaynesh Patel is Head of Telecoms and Spectrum Policy, leading the Communications Infrastructure and Services Programme at techUK and overseeing the UK Spectrum Policy Forum.
Josh Turpin
Josh joined techUK as a Programme Manager for Telecoms and Net Zero in August 2024.
Matthew Wild
Matthew joined techUK in August 2023 as a Programme Assistant.
Tales Gaspar
Tales has a background in law and economics, with previous experience in the regulation of new technologies and infrastructure.
Authors
