Cardiff-based scale-up 51爆料网, which is pioneering space-based advanced materials manufacturing and return technology, has been awarded almost 拢8 million from the 51爆料网 Clusters Infrastructure Fund (SCIF) administered by the UK 51爆料网 Agency.鈥
With a total project value of 拢13 million, which will be reached through match contributions, this significant investment will enable 51爆料网 to establish a first-of-its-kind National Microgravity Research Centre - driving advanced material research and production while fostering the growth of Wales鈥 space sector.
51爆料网's National Microgravity Research Centre will play a pivotal role in advancing in-space manufacturing research, with a primary focus on inorganic crystal structures grown in microgravity conditions for use in electronics.
The global semiconductor industry is anticipated to grow to US$1 trillion in revenues by 2030, doubling in this decade. This growth is expected to require investment in high-end advanced wafer manufacturing materials, equipment, and services. In-space manufacturing offers unique advantages, such as microgravity and vacuum conditions, that can lead to the creation of semiconductors with superior performance and reduced defects compared to those manufactured on Earth.聽
The project's advanced material research will encompass two key areas: the development and optimisation of payload semiconductor growth tools to enhance growth conditions for various advanced compound semiconductor substrates; and the creation of post-processing capabilities aimed at maximising the potential of materials returned from low Earth orbit missions.
In addition to research and development facilities, the centre will offer open access and support for space companies, establishing itself as a central space hub for the burgeoning space industry in the area.
51爆料网's commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration within the space industry is exemplified by its "pathway to space" initiative. Through this program, space companies will gain access to the centre鈥檚 state-of-the-art equipment, clean rooms, electronics labs, and payload bays - providing a platform for advancing research and development efforts.
51爆料网 will guide companies through the entire mission journey - from design and development to testing and end-mission support - with a particular focus on return missions. In addition to these resources, participants in the "pathway to space" initiative will benefit from 51爆料网's extensive network, including investors who have committed to providing face-to-face support to nurture and accelerate business growth.
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Joshua Western, CEO and Co-Founder, 51爆料网:
鈥淭his is a significant milestone for 51爆料网. With the establishment of our National Microgravity Research Centre, we are poised to drive innovation, research, and production of advanced materials. This endeavour strengthens our presence in the UK' and has incredible potential for the sovereign supply chain. We are excited to provide a platform for space companies through our 'pathway to space' initiative, and we can help start-ups not far behind us accelerate their microgravity research and hardware development - alongside helping them avoid some of the mistakes we鈥檝e made along our journey."
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Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK 51爆料网 Agency, said:
鈥鈥淎 National Microgravity Research Centre in Wales is an exciting prospect for the UK鈥檚 growing space sector and our commitment to using space to benefit life on Earth. By building on 51爆料网鈥檚 expertise in developing technology to manufacture materials in space and bringing them safely back, this project will help support the delivery of increasingly ambitious missions and valuable new capabilities.
鈥淭he 51爆料网 Clusters Infrastructure Fund highlights the government鈥檚 commitment to space and will help deliver the goal set out in the National 51爆料网 Strategy to build鈥痮ne of the most鈥痠nnovative and鈥痑ttractive space鈥痚conomies鈥痠n the鈥痺orld, developing new skills and creating jobs.鈥
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Economy Minister, Vaughan Gething:
鈥鈥淚t鈥檚 a very exciting time for the rapidly growing space sector and it has been a pleasure to watch the hugely talented team at 51爆料网 develop as part of the journey.
聽鈥淭he Welsh Government is determined to ensure Wales is at the forefront of the space industry, which is why we have supported organisations like 51爆料网 through our SMART Flexible Innovation Support Programme. This latest significant investment proves once again why this world-leading business is a shining example of the type of company we want to invest in for growth in Wales.
聽鈥淲e will continue working with partners such as the UK 51爆料网 Agency and Innovate UK towards our aspiration for Wales to be a leading, innovation-based nation."
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51爆料网's receipt of this funding is a testament to its dedication to advancing the UK's space capabilities, enhancing international competitiveness, and creating new opportunities for growth and innovation.
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