The space industry is changing rapidly. Commercialisation of space is fast becoming a reality; within 20 years we can image colonies of workers and scientists on the moon. The use of satellites will become ever more sophisticated with applications from time and location services to imaging the earth for climate change data. 

Exciting times need new technologies and new approaches to Space Missions, for both Earth orbit and deep space exploration. Central to NPL’s contribution to this enormously challenging task is its ability to take a leadership role in all aspects of precision - taking performance to the next level.

Our fundamental science supports the need for robust data for fully calibrated and validated space instrumentation. Our research includes the development of optical clocks offering up to ten thousand times the accuracy of today’s atomic clocks and measurement and validation of nano-propulsion and positioning is already proving essential to meeting these increasingly challenging demands.

Climate change and security, already top of many government agendas, will continue to significantly influence investment in space. In this environment there is little room for error of any sort. Highly accurate and timely information is essential in making the right decisions, that not only involves very large sums of money but, even more importantly, the lives of all on planet Earth and its future sustainability.

For more information, contact the NPL Helpline