UK Research and Innovation opened its small-satellite missions sandpit on October 22, 2026, seeking Earth-observation concepts that connect new sensors and data processing with identifiable user needs. The call brings together researchers and stakeholders from space, defense, and environmental organizations to develop candidate missions.
A sandpit is a structured collaborative workshop. Approximately 30 participants will form teams and develop concepts, with selected projects potentially progressing to applications for early feasibility studies. Participation alone does not confer an award.
The call identifies a £1.87 million pool at full economic cost, with UKRI covering 80% of that cost. It anticipates funding five or six projects lasting up to 11 months, starting May 1, 2027. This stage concerns mission feasibility rather than satellite construction and launch.
Applicants must be based at eligible UK research organizations. Businesses and international organizations cannot apply directly under this call, but may contribute as project partners.
Mission feasibility requires matching the instrument to the spacecraft supporting it. Small-spacecraft engineering involves connected constraints: power supply, thermal control, onboard processing, and communications determine how frequently a sensor can collect measurements and how those measurements reach users. These requirements apply even when an individual instrument is technically ready.
For Earth observation, collecting measurements and delivering information are different tasks. A mission concept must connect its observations with the product required by its intended user. Choices about processing data onboard or transmitting it to the ground affect computing, communications, and energy requirements.
UKRI’s application portal schedules the workshop between January 26 and February 10, 2027, combining online and in-person sessions. Full attendance is required. A selection panel will seek a mix of disciplines, career stages, backgrounds, and regions, and participation is subject to security checks.
Expressions of interest close November 25, 2026, at 4 p.m. UK time. Applicants are expected to receive selection results by mid-December. A November 3 webinar, scheduled for 10:30–11:30 a.m. UK time, will explain the opportunity before the application deadline.
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