image: ©BriBar | iStock Passengers on some of Britain’s most remote railway routes could start to benefit from more reliable internet access, following a £13 million government investment in next-generation satellite communications
The UK Space Agency announced the funding, which will support 16 projects to develop new satellite technologies and bring their benefits into everyday life.
The European Space Agency’s Advanced Research in Telecommunication Systems (ARTES) program will deliver the projects.
One project will trial satellite broadband on ScotRail’s West Highland Line. The remote route includes areas where traditional mobile and broadband networks can struggle to provide reliable coverage.
The SODOR project, led by CGI IT UK, will equip a train with satellite communications technology to test whether it can provide passengers with a more consistent broadband connection.
Smarter technology for farmers
The investment will also support the development of affordable technology for farmers and growers.
Farmer Charlie’s GAUFF project is developing low-cost sensors that can monitor crops, soil and local environmental conditions. By combining satellite and mobile connectivity, the system is intended to work even in rural areas with limited internet access.
Real-time information could help farmers make more informed decisions about their land, improve productivity and reduce waste. The technology is expected to become available by the end of next summer.
Other projects are focused on making satellite-connected devices smaller and more affordable, including Lacuna Space’s work on user terminals that can connect sensors and everyday objects to the internet from remote locations.
Faster satellite communications
A significant part of the funding will go toward developing faster, more flexible satellite communication systems.
Exobotics has been awarded £2.1 million for STARS, a project developing optical communications technology that can rapidly transfer data between satellites and the ground. Archangel Lightworks is also working on high-speed laser communications, with its Optimus project targeting data transmission speeds of more than 100 gigabits per second.
Other projects will improve ground stations, satellite processors and the ability of terrestrial 5G and future 6G networks to work alongside satellite systems.
The investment also includes work on deep-space and lunar communications, helping develop the infrastructure that could support future exploration missions.
Supporting jobs and UK space technology
The government says the investment will help strengthen Britain’s position in the global space sector while supporting jobs and economic growth.
The UK space industry currently employs more than 55,000 people and contributes £18.6 billion to the economy each year.
The 16 projects cover a wide range of technologies, from optical communications and artificial intelligence to satellite propulsion and ground infrastructure.
Together, they are intended to improve connectivity, support modern farming, strengthen communications networks and prepare the UK for the next generation of satellite services.