Space clusters unite for launch of the CySpace Connected Capability Network
The Satellite Applications Catapult has announced the launch of its third Connected Capability Network (CNN) at Defense Space 2024, with the aim for communities to harness space technology and benefit from satellite data.
The CCNs contribute to the growth of the UK Space industry by leveraging the space cluster network and building links between adjacent sectors and the space ecosystem. The Catapult has played an active role in fostering growth in the UK Space Ecosystem since 2013 and CCNs are the next evolution, strengthening community activity throughout the UK to facilitate the translation of research and development into commercial opportunities.
The CySpace CCN, led by the Space West Cluster, on behalf of a number of regional space clusters, will advance the reach and impact of satellite data and space technology across the UK, particularly regarding the security of space assets that impact our lives on Earth.
The CySpace CCN will collaborate with relevant space and non-space communities to enhance the UK’s Space Domain Awareness capability by including cybersecurity considerations, leading to a more secure space environment. This endeavour aligns with several aspects of the UK’s National Space Strategy, including the recent Defence Space Strategy. Success will be delivered through mapping and engaging new partners both in and outside of the space sector, and bringing together expertise to drive innovation.
Space South Central is a key partner for delivery of the CySpace CCN, along with:
Frazer-Nash Consultancy
North West Space Cluster
Harwell Space Cluster
Space North East England
Space Wales
Northern Ireland Space
Space Cluster Leads and Paul Bates from UK Space Agency
Rebecca Huffee, Space West Cluster Manager, commented:
“The Space West Cluster is delighted to be working with space and cyber clusters from across the UK to build on the work being done under Space West’s “Secure and Resilient Communications Priority” theme to strengthen the resilience of UK space assets, including through enhancing the resilience of Space Domain Awareness. Cybersecurity poses the biggest threat to our space assets. The CySpace Connected Capability Network is excited to be working with partners, Frazer Nash Consulting, Space South Central, North West Space Cluster, Space North East, Space Wales, Space East and Space Northern Ireland as well as our cyber cluster counterparts to develop new networks and collaborations to create new products and services that will strengthen the security of our infrastructure in space.
"Given the critical nature of Space Domain Awareness capability for our continued access and operation in space, the CySpace network will focus on this capability to drive an understanding of the threat landscape, requirements and gaps to define a roadmap for developing resilient capability through including applications and considerations of Cybersecurity.”
Louise Butt, Director of the Space South Central Enterprise Network, said:
“In an uncertain world, security and resilience is of utmost importance. Our reliance on space assets and services is ever increasing. Therefore, it is essential we protect the critical space infrastructure that underpins many of the services we use each day.
“CySpace provides a network and framework to galvanise our space and cyber communities, providing a focus for solution-driven innovation. I’m delighted to see the Satellite Applications Catapult and the space clusters coming together to lead the charge, supporting sovereign capabilities and building national resilience.”
