Photonics for Space: Special Interest Group

Agenda

0930 – 1000 Coffee & networking

1000 – 1130 Photonics for Space SIG

1130 – 1200 Coffee & networking

About this meeting

We shall hear from Catherine Holt (Horizon Europe National Contact Point for Space and Environment) about the UK’s participation in Horizon Europe now that we have associated to the programme, with a focus on space but also a wider look at photonics funding opportunities too.

Rosanna Quigley will speak about the Space Suppliers Summit which is taking place in Glasgow in February 2024, and present the opportunities to get involved in the event.

We shall learn about patents, trade marks, trade secrets, design and copyright from Frederika Phipps of Scintilla, and the importance of IP as a commercial asset.

We shall also have a round-up from recent relevant events and a look forward to shows taking place over the next few months.

Background: Photonics in the space sector

For over a century, Scotland has been at the cutting edge of photonics innovation. With over 60 companies at the heart of the Scottish photonics cluster, this ‘invisible technology’ underpins a vast range of vertical markets. One of these markets, and a currently growing sector for Scotland, is space.

Almost one fifth of all UK jobs in the space sector are based in Scotland. Scotland produces more small satellites than any other country in Europe, and aims to be the first country in Europe to provide a complete solution for the manufacture and launch of small satellites, supporting satellite and environmental data analysis and critical earth observation.

Technology Scotland in partnership with the Higgs Centre for Innovation, is currently exploring ways to further highlight the role of photonics in the space sector, with particular emphasis on supporting members to realise potential opportunities, removing some of the stigmas surrounding barriers to the space sector, signposting towards relevant funding and nurturing a community to help build an ecosystem for the space sector within Scotland.