Slingshot Aerospace has been selected by the UK Space Agency to deliver a global optical sensor network that will expand the United Kingdom’s ability to track satellites and orbital debris as congestion in orbit continues to rise.
The company said the award strengthens the UK’s sovereign space domain awareness at a time when the number of active satellites is projected to grow from about 12,000 today to 100,000 by 2030.
According to the organisation, the contract will see Slingshot deploy 13 optical sensor systems across five international sites. These sensors are intended to provide high precision tracking of satellites, debris and other near Earth objects, with partner firm Baader Planetarium supplying AllSky Domes designed to enable fully autonomous, round the clock operations in varied environments.
Tim Solms, Slingshot Aerospace’s chief executive, said the agreement will support the UK’s efforts to build independent space surveillance capabilities.
“Our partnership with the UK Space Agency establishes a strong foundation for the United Kingdom to expand mission critical space capabilities not only in hardware, but also in advanced data services, AI driven insights and real time mission support,” he said.
“By joining this global network, the UK is showing how accessible space safety and sustainability can be and setting an example for other nations looking to build and strengthen their own space programmes.”
Angus Stewart, Head of the National Space Operations Centre, described the new system as central to the agency’s mission. “We are delighted to welcome Slingshot onboard as our delivery partner for a global network of optical space sensors,” he said. “This sensor network is critical to our mission of protecting UK and allied interests in space and on Earth, and ensuring space remains safe and sustainable.”
Slingshot stated that its global network currently comprises 204 sensors across 21 sites on five continents.
