The UK Space Agency’s (UKSA) Annual Report and Accounts for 2023-2024 provide an in-depth look at the agency’s performance, achievements, and ongoing efforts to boost UK prosperity, advance scientific understanding of the universe, and ensure the protection of both our planet and outer space. The report, covering the period from April 2023 to March 2024, emphasizes the UKSA’s commitment to innovation, international collaboration, and the development of a robust and sustainable space sector. This article explores the key elements of the report.
Performance Report
Introduction from the UK Space Agency Board Chair
Lord David Willetts, Chair of the UK Space Agency, opens the report by highlighting the UKSA’s significant progress over the past year. Lord Willetts emphasizes the UK’s growing role on the global space stage, including participation in international space missions such as the ESA JUICE mission to Jupiter and the IM-1 lunar mission. These efforts, along with the agency’s contributions to sustainable space practices, exemplify the UK’s ability to lead and innovate within the space sector.
The Chair also underscores the agency’s commitment to space sustainability, referencing the Active Debris Removal (ADR) initiative, which focuses on cleaning up space by removing defunct satellites, and events like the Space Sustainability Summit, where the UK Space Agency played a pivotal role. This emphasis on sustainability is increasingly important as space activities become more extensive and international space traffic increases, leading to growing concerns about space debris and its long-term impact on future missions.
Chief Executive’s Statement
Dr. Paul Bate, the Chief Executive of the UKSA, provides a detailed statement on the agency’s key accomplishments for the year. These include securing £642 million in funding for the UK space sector, completing 51 out of 65 milestones, and remaining within 1% of the forecast year-end budget. Dr. Bate highlights the increasing visibility of UK space activities, such as the launch of UK-built instruments and satellites and the receipt of the first visible-light images from Euclid, the ESA mission studying dark matter and dark energy.
Dr. Bate acknowledges the challenges faced by the agency, particularly regarding staff workloads, but also praises the progress made in improving workplace processes and increasing staffing by 18% to build greater resilience. He outlines the agency’s commitment to the future, pointing to new initiatives such as the Connectivity in Low Earth Orbit (C-LEO) program, which received £160 million in funding and aims to further the UK’s leadership in satellite communications and Low Earth Orbit technologies.
Purpose, Role, and North Star Metric
The UKSA’s purpose is centered around three core goals:
- Boost UK prosperity: Supporting economic growth through the space sector.
- Understand the universe: Advancing scientific discovery and space exploration.
- Protect our planet and outer space: Promoting sustainability in space activities.
In alignment with these goals, the UKSA’s role is multifaceted, focusing on catalyzing investment, delivering missions and capabilities, and championing space to inspire innovation, scientific advancement, and economic development. The agency’s North Star Metric, which measures success by the total investment into the UK space sector, serves as a guide to ensure that its activities remain aligned with its overarching purpose.
Performance Against the 2022-2025 Corporate Plan
The UKSA’s performance is assessed based on eight priority areas identified in its 2022-2025 Corporate Plan. These priorities reflect the agency’s commitment to driving space-related economic and scientific growth, both domestically and internationally:
- Launch: The UK is working toward delivering its first small satellite launch and establishing a sustainable commercial launch market by 2030. Investments in Spaceport Cornwall, SaxaVord Spaceport, and Spaceport Sutherland are central to this objective, ensuring that the UK becomes a key player in the global space launch industry.
- Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Capabilities: The C-LEO program aims to enhance the UK’s position in satellite communications and Earth observation by leveraging LEO assets. The program focuses on technologies like data processing in orbit, optical intersatellite links, and ground infrastructure, which will benefit industries ranging from aviation to disaster management.
- Levelling-Up: Through initiatives like the Space Clusters Infrastructure Fund (SCIF) and Space Ecosystem Development (SED) programs, the UKSA is accelerating the growth of local space clusters across the UK, bringing high-tech jobs and investment to regions from Cornwall to Scotland.
- Discovery: UKSA is managing several space missions, including the ESA Euclid mission and the JUICE mission to Jupiter’s icy moons, to strengthen the UK’s space science and engineering capabilities. The agency is also playing a crucial role in Mars exploration through its contributions to the Rosalind Franklin Mars Rover mission.
- Earth Observation: UKSA is leading the way in Earth observation through programs like Copernicus and missions such as MANTIS and MicroCarb, which monitor CO2 levels and other key environmental indicators. These efforts are crucial for addressing the global climate emergency and informing climate policy decisions.
- Innovation: Innovation is at the heart of the UKSA’s strategy. The National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP) and International Bilateral Fund (IBF) are funding high-risk, high-reward space technologies. A focus on in-orbit servicing and satellite propulsion systems is helping the UK capture a larger share of the global space market.
- Sustainability: The UKSA is driving space sustainability through the Active Debris Removal (ADR) initiative and in-orbit servicing technologies. These efforts, along with the agency’s signing of the Astra Carta initiative led by King Charles III, underscore the UK’s commitment to responsible space practices.
- Inspiration: The UKSA is dedicated to inspiring future generations by promoting STEM education and demonstrating the societal benefits of space technology. Initiatives like the Space for Everyone rocket tour reached over 160,000 young people, particularly in underrepresented regions, emphasizing the wide range of career opportunities in the space sector.
Transformation Goals
The UKSA’s transformation goals for the year focused on building a great workplace culture, improving efficiency and decision-making, and becoming a truly national space agency. The agency also aimed to act as a catalyst for the UK space sector, supporting space businesses of all sizes and fostering trusted space leadership at the global level.
Noteworthy achievements in this area include the opening of new offices in Cardiff, Leicester, and Edinburgh and the launch of Harwell as the new UKSA headquarters. These developments bring the agency closer to space sector stakeholders across the UK, enhancing collaboration and innovation.
Key Initiatives and Achievements
Space Launches and Infrastructure
The UK Space Agency is supporting the development of multiple spaceports to advance the nation’s ability to launch satellites. The SaxaVord Spaceport, located in the Shetland Islands, has already received its spaceport license and aims for its first launch in 2024. Meanwhile, Orbex, the operator of Spaceport Sutherland, is making significant progress toward launching its Prime vehicle in 2025. These developments contribute to the UK’s ambition of becoming a leading satellite launch destination by 2030.
In addition to these spaceport projects, the agency is working closely with companies like Horizon Technologies, whose Amber program aims to enhance marine domain awareness through satellite data. This project represents the UK’s commitment to supporting innovative satellite applications that address critical global needs.
Earth Observation and Climate Change
The UK Space Agency’s leadership in Earth observation has been further solidified through its return to full membership in Copernicus, the European Union’s flagship EO program. Copernicus enables UK scientists, commercial users, and policymakers to access critical EO data for applications ranging from climate monitoring to disaster management.
Notable achievements include the UK’s leadership of the International Charter for Space and Major Disasters, which uses satellite data to assist governments in managing natural disasters. The agency has also been instrumental in the development of the TRUTHS mission, which will use hyperspectral imaging to provide highly accurate climate data, supporting global climate mitigation efforts.
Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Capabilities
The C-LEO program marks the largest domestic UK space program to date, with £160 million allocated to developing transformative technologies in Low Earth Orbit. This program is essential for future-proofing the UK’s satellite communications sector, which has strategic applications in industries like shipping, aviation, and emergency response.
As part of this initiative, the UKSA is also exploring ways to enhance broadband access and connectivity in remote regions, potentially reducing the global digital divide. By investing in LEO capabilities, the UK is positioning itself at the forefront of the next wave of satellite-based innovations.
Innovation and Investment
The UK Space Agency’s innovation strategy focuses on nurturing high-potential technologies and businesses through programs like NSIP and IBF. The agency’s Space Portfolio sub-fund, managed by Future Planet Capital, provides equity investments to early-stage space companies, catalyzing further private capital investment.
This holistic approach includes not only grants and contracts but also access to skills, facilities, and financing opportunities. Investments in electric propulsion, AI-enabled satellite applications, and international collaborations with space agencies like NASA, JAXA, and CSA have strengthened the UK’s position as a leader in space innovation.
Accountability Report
The Accountability Report provides a detailed look at the governance structure, including the role of the Audit Committee in ensuring ethical financial practices. The UKSA operates under strict guidelines to ensure transparency and accountability in all its financial and operational activities.
Corporate Governance and Audit Committee
The UK Space Agency adheres to the highest standards of corporate governance to ensure ethical management and financial integrity. The Audit Committee, chaired by independent members, plays a key role in maintaining transparency and accountability within the organization. The committee reviews internal audits, risk management practices, and compliance with governmental guidelines, ensuring that the UKSA operates within the frameworks established by the Government Resources and Accounts Act 2000.
The governance statement included in the report highlights the role of key stakeholders, including the Board of Directors, who work alongside the CEO and Accounting Officer to oversee the agency’s strategic direction and performance. Regular reviews of governance practices ensure that the agency meets its fiduciary duties while continuing to deliver high-impact programs that benefit the UK space sector.
Statement of Accounting Officer’s Responsibilities
As the Accounting Officer, Dr. Paul Bate is responsible for ensuring the integrity of financial reporting and that all financial statements provide a true and fair view of the agency’s financial position. The Statement of Accounting Officer’s Responsibilities outlines these duties in compliance with the Treasury’s Managing Public Money guidance. It also confirms that the agency’s financial controls are robust and effective in managing the risks associated with its diverse portfolio of projects and investments.
Parliamentary Accountability and Audit
The UK Space Agency’s activities are subject to parliamentary scrutiny, ensuring that public funds are used efficiently and effectively to meet the objectives set out by the government. The Parliamentary Accountability and Audit section of the report details how the agency remains accountable to Parliament, providing full transparency on its financial position, performance, and future plans.
The agency’s financial statements, prepared under the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), are audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General. The audit includes an assessment of the accuracy and fairness of the financial statements, ensuring that they are free from material misstatement and that the agency’s funds are used for their intended purposes. This section also outlines the certificate provided by the Comptroller and Auditor General, certifying the completeness and integrity of the accounts.
Financial Accounts
The financial section of the UKSA Annual Report provides a detailed overview of the agency’s income, expenditures, and financial health for the fiscal year 2023-2024. The financial statements offer insights into how the agency has allocated its resources, from investments in space infrastructure and research programs to staff costs and operational expenses.
Income and Funding Sources
The agency’s primary source of income is government grants allocated for space development programs. This funding is critical for the agency’s ability to finance major initiatives, such as the National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP), Low Earth Orbit (LEO) capabilities, and Earth Observation (EO) programs. In addition to government funding, the agency has catalyzed significant private investment in the UK space sector, especially through partnerships with international organizations and commercial entities.
The financial statements include detailed notes on funding allocations for specific projects, ensuring transparency in how resources are distributed across the agency’s priority areas. The report also highlights the financial impact of successful programs, including the UK Space Accelerator and International Bilateral Fund (IBF), both of which have attracted international investment and fostered collaborations with global space agencies like NASA and ESA.
Expenditure Breakdown
The UKSA’s expenditures cover a wide range of areas, from capital investments in spaceports and satellite technology to operational expenses for running the agency’s offices and managing staff. A significant portion of the budget is dedicated to research and development (R&D) activities, reflecting the agency’s commitment to fostering innovation within the space sector.
Notable expenditures include investments in infrastructure, such as the Space Clusters Infrastructure Fund (SCIF), which has funded the development of new R&D facilities across the UK. Additionally, the £50 million Moonlight program, which aims to launch a constellation of satellites around the Moon, represents another key area of investment. These satellites will provide critical communication and navigation services for future lunar missions, ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of global space exploration efforts.
Staff Costs and Organizational Growth
The report also provides a detailed breakdown of the UKSA’s staff costs, which include salaries, pensions, and benefits for its growing workforce. The agency has increased its staffing levels by 18% over the past year to address workload concerns and improve overall capacity. This expansion reflects the agency’s commitment to ensuring that it has the necessary expertise and resources to manage its expanding portfolio of space programs.
Sustainability and Value for Money
A key theme throughout the financial accounts is the UKSA’s focus on sustainability and value for money. The agency’s investments are designed to deliver long-term economic and scientific benefits, with a particular emphasis on promoting space sustainability. Projects like Active Debris Removal (ADR) and in-orbit refueling technologies aim to ensure that the UK’s space activities remain economically viable and environmentally responsible.
Additionally, the agency has implemented cost-saving measures across its operations to ensure that public funds are used efficiently. By prioritizing high-impact projects and leveraging private sector partnerships, the UKSA is able to maximize the return on investment for taxpayers while supporting the growth of the UK space economy.
Future Outlook
As the UK Space Agency looks ahead to 2024 and beyond, it is clear that the organization is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities within the global space sector. The National Space Strategy provides a clear roadmap for the UK to become a leading player in space exploration, scientific discovery, and commercial space markets.
Expanding the UK’s Role in Space Launches
One of the key goals for the coming years is to solidify the UK’s position as a hub for satellite launches. With multiple spaceports in development, including SaxaVord Spaceport and Spaceport Sutherland, the UK is on track to deliver its first small satellite launches by 2025. These facilities will enable the UK to capture a larger share of the global space launch market, bringing significant economic benefits and creating high-skilled jobs in some of the country’s most remote regions.
Additionally, the UKSA’s collaboration with international partners will play a critical role in advancing the nation’s launch capabilities. Partnerships with companies like Rocket Factory Augsburg and programs like Virgin Orbit demonstrate the UK’s ability to attract foreign investment and develop cutting-edge space technologies.
Leadership in Earth Observation and Climate Change
The UKSA’s commitment to Earth observation will continue to play a central role in its future plans. As the agency takes on the chairmanship of the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) in October 2024, it will lead global efforts to use satellite technology to monitor climate change and mitigate its effects.
The TRUTHS mission, which aims to provide highly accurate climate data through hyperspectral imaging, is set to revolutionize the way scientists measure Earth’s environmental changes. By enabling other instruments to be calibrated against TRUTHS data, the mission will enhance the accuracy of climate modeling and support international climate policy efforts.
Strengthening UK Leadership in Space Science
The UK will also continue to play a leading role in space science, particularly through missions like JUICE and Euclid, as well as future explorations of Mars and the Sun. The UK’s contributions to the Rosalind Franklin Mars Rover mission and its involvement in the LiteBIRD mission to study the early universe underscore the country’s leadership in cutting-edge scientific research.
These missions not only advance humanity’s understanding of the universe but also offer opportunities for the development of new space technologies, many of which have applications in fields beyond space exploration, including healthcare and engineering.
Summary
The UK Space Agency’s Annual Report for 2023-2024 demonstrates the agency’s continued leadership in the global space sector. From launching innovative space missions to driving sustainability in space activities, the UKSA is making significant contributions to scientific discovery, economic growth, and international collaboration. As the agency continues to implement the National Space Strategy, its role in shaping the future of space exploration and technology is set to grow, ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of the global space economy.
