New Space Enterprise Lab Opens at Wrexham University’s OpTIC Technology Centre

The Space Enterprise Lab, a cutting-edge facility designed to support the rapidly expanding space sector in the UK, has officially opened at the OpTIC Technology Centre, located at the St Asaph campus of Prifysgol Wrecsam/Wrexham University. This state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest collaborative technology, resources, and expertise, and is set to become a key component of the Satellite Applications Catapult’s nationwide network.

The Space Enterprise Lab will provide essential capabilities for companies and innovators within the space sector, fostering more effective collaboration. It is part of a network of 14 facilities across the UK, all designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses and organizations.

This innovative lab offers virtual delivery of meetings, business sprints, and user engagement sessions, along with a range of services such as virtual whiteboards and video conferencing, aimed at promoting collaboration within the UK space sector.

Situated within the St Asaph Business Park, the OpTIC Technology Centre provides a unique hub for businesses and technology companies to connect, linking research and development, industry, and academia. Its reputation for high-quality facilities, cutting-edge technology, and laboratory space makes it a proven catalyst for the growth and development of businesses.

The opening of the Space Enterprise Lab at the OpTIC Technology Centre is expected to enhance collaboration between organizations in North Wales and South Wales, following the launch of a similar lab in Newport in June 2023.

Professor Caroline Gray OBE, Director of OpTIC Technology Centre, expressed her enthusiasm for the launch of the Space Enterprise Lab, emphasizing its role in supporting the growth of the UK space sector. She underscored the importance of embracing new hybrid ways of engagement and fostering innovation and collaboration.

In anticipation of the lab’s opening, Professor Richard Day, Pro Vice Chancellor for Research at Wrexham University, expressed excitement at hosting the first Space Enterprise Lab in North Wales and thanked the Satellite Applications Catapult for the opportunity to collaborate on the project. Dr Nafeesa Dajda, Director of National Capabilities at the Satellite Applications Catapult, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the lab’s importance in connecting Space Wales to the broader space ecosystem.

The Space Enterprise Labs (SEL) play a crucial role in the UK Space Ecosystem (UKSE), serving as a vital link between innovators, investors, academic institutions, and industry partners in the space sector. As part of the broader UK Space Ecosystem, the SEL is poised to facilitate collaboration and provide centralized access for the UK space industry, addressing challenges through extensive research and development.

The launch of the Space Enterprise Lab at the OpTIC Technology Centre marks a significant milestone in the development of the UK space sector and is expected to drive innovation, collaboration, and growth across the country.

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