University of Surrey launches space institute
The new space institute is being launched with the target of tackling urgent global challenges
The University of Surrey is launching a Space Institute in order to fill gaps within the UK's space sector.
The aim of the institute will be to bring together experts from across the sector in order to solve problems and tackle large global challenges.
A statement from the university says that "The Institute will convert the University's 45-year small satellite leadership into mission-ready solutions for climate, resilience and secure global connectivity."
Adam Amara, who is the inaugural director for the institution says that it would've been crazy to build it anywhere other than Surrey.
"The University of Surrey is the only university to have designed, built, and operated it's own satellites. So given this incredible heritage, it would've been crazy not to build from that."
Amara also emphasised how space is a common part of day to day lives.
"Space is no longer a frontier activity; it is already a critical national and international infrastructure underpinning everything from climate security to high-speed connectivity.
The Surrey Space Institute will give the UK the decisive capability it needs to stay ahead in the global space race and to solve complex problems at home and around the world."
Surrey's history with space.
As Amara mentioned, Surrey has a strong foundation in the world of space technology, and in particular, satellites.
45 years ago, the Surrey Space Centre was founded at the university of Surrey.
Since it's conception, the centre, has been a leader in the development of small satellites, also known as microsatellites.
Micro satellites are particularly useful for Earth observation, communications, and technology demonstration and are often cheaper and faster than traditional satellites.
Amara said that the new institute represented Surrey answering a national call for more development within the space sector.