CCNs
Supporting the UK Space Ecosystem
Connected Capability Networks
As we support our space clusters and strengthen UK space capabilities, the Connected Capability Networks (CCNs) facilitate the development of a connected space ecosystem in alignment with the National Space Strategy. These networks connect complementary capability offerings across the UK by strengthening and linking community activity, supporting the translation of research and development into commercial opportunities, and establishing links to adjacent sectors. Partly funded by the Satellite Applications Catapult, the CCNs amplify the Catapult’s strategic focus in the following areas:
- Sustainable Earth – UK Earth Observation Network for Sustainability (UK-EONS) launched January 2024
- Connected and Autonomous Earth – UK Autonomous and Connected Earth (UK-ACE) network launched March 2024
- Defence and Security (D&S) launching September 2024
- Beyond Earth – open for applications
The aim of the Connected Capability Networks is to:
- Work with partners in and outside the space sector to share knowledge and build new collaborations
- Link complementary capability offerings and existing stakeholder groups
- Address challenges with solutions powered by space technologies and satellite data which could be commercialise
What does a CCN do?
Understand stakeholder communities and capabilities
Raise awareness of the potential of space technologies and satellite data
Catalyse new collaborative activities working with existing and new stakeholder groups and communities in and outside the space sector
UK Earth Observation Network for Sustainability (UK-EONS)
Led by Space Hub Yorkshire and delivered by a consortium of partners across the Space Cluster and Earth Observation capability communities.
UK-EONS advances the reach and impact of space data and technology with a focus on Earth Observation technology for sustainability challenges.
- Capability Mapping
- Events Hosting
- Raising Awareness
- Nationwide Interactive EO Community
- Securing Funding and Investment
Delivery Partners UK-EONS
Space Hub Yorkshire, Arc for Space, National Centre for Earth Observation, Newcastle University, Space East, Space North East England, Tracsis Geo Intelligence, West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Yorkshire Universities.
OTHER PARTNERS
Cornwall Space Cluster, Harwell Space Cluster, Northern Ireland Space, SatSense, Space Park Leicester, Space Wales.
UK Autonomous and Connected Earth (UK-ACE) Network
UK-ACE, led by Harwell Space Cluster, champions the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks, ensuring seamless connectivity, irrespective of location.
It will be delivered by mapping and engaging new partners and capabilities in and outside the space sector, bringing together expertise to drive forward innovation and finding new ways to work as a community and exploring collaborative opportunities.
Initially the network will focus on opportunities offered by the integration of space technology into a variety of connectivity and autonomy services:
- Mobility, Navigation and Transportation
- 5G/6G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN)/Terrestrial Network (TN) Convergence
- Photonics and Optical Communications
- Quantum & Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Satellite Broadband
Delivery Partners UK-ACE
Call for Proposals 2a: Defence and Security
This call is now closed – we will be announcing outcomes and next steps soon.
In 2023, building on the success of the Satellite Applications Catapult’s regional programmes, which have delivered significant growth across the UK Space Ecosystem, the Catapult sought proposals (Call 1) from bidders to develop the first pilot “Connected Capability Networks (CCN)” as a next step in the journey.
As a result, in 2024, two networks, UK-Autonomous and Connected Earth (UK-ACE) and UK Earth Observation Network for Sustainability (UK-EONS) were formed. This iteration of the CCN call (Call 2a) seeks proposals for bidders to develop a CCN on Defence and Security (D&S).
Connected Capability Networks (CCN) Call for Proposals 2b: Beyond Earth
Closing 20 November 2024
This iteration of the CCN call (Call 2b) seeks proposals for bidders to develop a CCN on Beyond Earth.
In line with the goals of the Catapult’s Beyond Earth Mission and the national policy landscape, the CCN should aim to develop, maintain and increase UK’s participation in the beyond earth economy. This will include strengthening networks and catalysing activity in the following focus areas:
- In-Space Manufacturing & R&D
- In-Space Logistics Services Adoption
Space Enterprise Community
In the meantime, we encourage you to join the Space Enterprise Community (SEC) platform to connect to industry, academia and government stakeholders benefiting from the power of space data and technology
