Building Connections Across the North East Space Ecosystem
The North East is home to a wealth of expertise that can support the growing space sector, from advanced engineering and Earth observation to clean technologies, manufacturing and security.
As Space North East England's Business Engagement Officer, Fay Gibson is meeting businesses across the region to learn more about their capabilities and explore opportunities for collaboration within the space industry.
Discovering Space Opportunities in Adjacent Sectors
Fay recently met with Lynn Chikosha, Founder and CEO of Kona Clean Technologies, to discuss how technologies developed in other industries could find applications within the space sector.
As the UK space industry continues to grow, businesses with expertise in clean technologies, innovation and advanced manufacturing are well placed to explore new opportunities and diversify into emerging markets.
Connecting Earth Observation and Creativity
Another visit saw Fay meet with Richard Eyers, an Earth observation specialist whose experience spans environmental monitoring, mineral exploration and the energy sector.
Alongside his technical work, Richard is also an accomplished photographer, demonstrating how space technologies can connect with the creative industries. His passion for both Earth observation and visual storytelling highlights the diverse range of skills that contribute to the wider space ecosystem.
Supporting the Space Supply Chain
Fay also met with Stephen Bailey, founder of Singular Security, a North East company specialising in modular security solutions that protect people, assets and sensitive information.
As space organisations work with high-value equipment and critical infrastructure, businesses like Singular Security have an important role to play in supporting the wider sector and ensuring facilities remain safe and secure.
Showcasing North East Engineering Excellence
A recent visit to JBA Engineering highlighted the world-class capabilities that exist within the region's engineering sector.
During the visit, Fay learned more about JBA's contribution to the European Southern Observatory's Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) project in Chile, where the company designed and delivered a cryogenic control system for one of the world's most ambitious astronomical facilities.
The team also shared their work on DESCycle, an innovative project focused on recovering valuable metals from electronic waste, helping create a more sustainable source of critical materials for future technologies.
From astronomy and advanced manufacturing to automation and clean technologies, JBA's work showcases the breadth of expertise that exists across the North East and its potential relevance to the space sector.
Strengthening the Regional Space Community
These visits are helping to identify new opportunities, build relationships and connect innovative businesses with the wider space community.
Not every organisation involved in the space sector is a traditional space company. Many already have the skills, technologies and expertise needed to support the industry's future growth. By bringing businesses together and highlighting regional strengths, Space North East England is helping to create new opportunities across the sector and strengthen the North East's position as a hub for space innovation.
If you are interested in exploring how your businesses fits into the space industry contact Fay Gibson fay.gibson@durham.gov.uk
