The UK Space Agency (UKSA) is heading a programme looking to develop hybrid connectivity solutions that can provide connectivity in some of the UK’s hardest-to-reach locations.
UKSA is working with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) to deliver the scheme under the European Space Agency’s (ESA’s) telecommunications research programme.
It will offer funding of up to £3.5m for partners to deliver and test three different projects involving satellite technology for connectivity.
The government said that while “significant progress” had already been made on superfast and gigabit-capable broadband, some remote locations still faced connectivity challenges.
These tended to be rural areas with sparse populations and difficult terrain, making traditional infrastructure solutions both costly and impractical.
The government added that new innovative solutions to boost connectivity would improve the economy and quality of life in these locations, supporting a number of areas including education, healthcare, tourism and conservation.
Telecoms Minister Chris Bryant added that new solutions could help tackle digital exclusion and that they could be a “game-changer” for many remote communities.
One project will develop vehicle-mounted portable satellite connectivity
The first project is known as the Nomadic Multi-orbit User Terminal Demonstrator and has a funding limit of £500,000.
This will feature a portable solution capable of delivering gigabit-capable internet speeds with terminals designed to be mounted on standard vehicles.
The technology will be able to be fitted and deployed on standard vehicles, using signals from satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and geostationary orbit (GEO).
This can provide a “robust, flexible and high-speed communication system” that could be used in a variety of settings.
This could, for example, include improving connectivity for farmers, emergency services, local authorities and the hospitality sector.
Two other projects will test hybrid connectivity solutions in specific locations that struggle to connect using traditional methods.
The Rathlin Island Service Demonstrator project will get up to £2m in funding to improve connectivity on Rathlin Island, the most northerly point of Northern Ireland.
The Papa Stour Service Demonstrator will receive up to £1m to do the same on Papa Stour in the Shetland Islands.
Both of these remote locations present challenges that make satellite connectivity services an attractive option.
Solutions could potentially combine LEO and GEO satellite terminals with wireless and mobile technologies, possibly including 5G and 6G.
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