A landmark European summit in Belfast has united 100 leaders from government, industry, academia and investment to unlock the economic, environmental and societal benefits of satellite data and space-enabled services.
Co-hosted by NI SPACE, Matrix and Eurisy, the association of international and national space agencies and offices working on space matters, the event called for faster adoption of space-derived solutions to drive growth and improve public services.
While Northern Ireland has already established a strong reputation in aerospace and advanced engineering, the conference focused on the rapidly expanding downstream space economy driven by data that is increasingly transforming sectors including agriculture, environmental management, infrastructure, transport, emergency response and financial services.
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Dominique Tilmans, President of Eurisy, noted:
"Northern Ireland represents exactly the type of dynamic and collaborative environment where space applications can deliver meaningful impact. Across Europe, we are seeing increasing demand from governments, businesses and citizens for solutions based on satellite data and services.
“We are delighted to co-organise this conference in Northern Ireland and to work alongside NI SPACE and other key sectoral stakeholders in showcasing how they can unlock innovation, support sustainable growth and create tangible benefits for society. The discussions taking place here will contribute to a broader European effort to maximise the value of space technologies for everyday life."
According to the latest UK Space Agency data, Northern Ireland's space sector comprises more than 60 space-related organisations, generating approximately £104 million in annual income and supporting more than 545 highly skilled jobs. Recent analysis commissioned by Matrix has also identified significant opportunities for growth in satellite communications, cyber security and data-driven space services.
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Robert Hill, Director of NI SPACE and event sponsors said:
"Space is no longer simply about what happens in orbit. The real opportunity for Northern Ireland lies in how we use the vast quantities of data generated from space to solve problems here on Earth.
"The decision by Eurisy to host this event in Belfast Northern Ireland reflects growing international recognition of the expertise, ambition and collaborative spirit that exists within our space ecosystem.”
A keynote address from deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, highlighted the growing importance of the space sector to Northern Ireland's economy and global reputation.
“Northern Ireland has all the ingredients required to play a significant role in the future space economy with our world-class innovation. By working together, we can unlock the full potential space has to offer, building partnerships that will ensure we can compete successfully on a global stage and delivering benefits for citizens, businesses and society,” she said.
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