Autonomous & Connected Earth

Our mission aims to accelerate the development and adoption of technologies that will enable universal connectivity and space-enabled autonomy.

Circular graphic: "Sustainable Earth," "Connected and Autonomous Earth," "Beyond Earth"; images of Earth and a rocket.

Why This Mission?
What We Do
Interventions
Get in Touch

MISSION STATEMENT

The goal of the Autonomous & Connected Earth mission is to ensure that space technologies support the UK goal of achieving the safe adoption of autonomous systems across key sectors.

We will do this by continuing our work to advance the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks that strength the UK national infrastructure and digital ecosystems.

Our work will support the UK to become a leader in satellite-terrestrial network integration and digital inclusion by 2035 and advance the adoption of autonomous systems across multiple sectors.

WHY ‘AUTONOMOUS & CONNECTED EARTH’?

A telecommunications tower with glowing blue and orange digital network elements in the background.

In our busy world, connectivity is a ‘must-have’, always on and always available. Without it, life is impacted.

Connectivity also plays a critical role in driving innovation and solutions across key markets including automotive, transport and logistics, agriculture and defence. Traditional terrestrial communication and connectivity systems come with coverage challenges, and space technology can bridge the gap.

Satellites above Earth with digital beams connecting various points on the surface, representing global communication.

The Autonomous & Connected Earth mission has a unique understanding of the role that space technology can play in addressing connectivity challenges.

We will use our knowledge and expertise to pursue the vision of a world powered by seamless connectivity that unlocks and advances the adoption of other solutions such as autonomous systems.

WHAT WE DO

We work in collaborations with partners and stakeholders, to facilitate the development of new technologies and applications, as well as promoting the wider adoption of ‘Autonomous & Connected Earth’ solutions.

Our role is to drive the mainstream adoption of space technology and create a better world powered by space.

INTERVENTIONS

Scroll to explore our missions

Universal Connectivity

Space-Enabled Autonomy

Universal Connectivity

The Universal Connectivity intervention addresses the critical challenges of digital inclusion and resilient, future-ready communication systems. It is built around three workstreams targeting specific aspects of connectivity innovation.

TN-NTN Implementations will focus on delivering the convergence of terrestrial and satellite networks. This will be crucial to deliver global, reliable and robust connectivity that is flexible, secure, and integrated. Our work in this area will explore spectrum-sharing policy development, interoperability frameworks, and establish testbeds and research facilities.
Novel architecture and technologies will prioritise the development of advanced communication systems using cutting-edge materials, secure infrastructure, and innovative design. Our work in this area will include initiatives to develop reconfigurable intelligent surfaces and prototyping secure satellite communication terminals.
Service accessibility will focus on enhancing connectivity in underserved rural and remote area. Through phased pilot deployments such as rural connectivity projects in Turkiye and Colombia, and advancements in drones and satellites, the aim is to promote affordable high-speed internet access.

Space-Enabled Autonomy

The Space-Enabled Autonomy intervention addresses the adoption of safe, efficient, and coordinated autonomous operations across sectors using space-based solutions and technologies. It is built around three workstreams.

PNT enhancements will focus on developing resilient and enhanced PNT systems that are essential for the successful use of autonomous systems. Our work will include integrating alternative systems like satellite-based positioning and 5G networks to support autonomous navigation, as well as policy collaboration and establishing new facilities.
Coordinated autonomous platform will focus on achieving a seamless collaboration between land, air and sea autonomous systems. Our work will include the development of simulation environments, interoperability standards, and cross-sector partnerships. By overcoming interoperability challenges and fostering cross-domain coordination, this workstream will lay the groundwork for fully integrated autonomous operations.
Safety & Accreditation will focus on work to ensure that autonomous systems are deployed securely and efficiently by establishing robust frameworks for accreditation, performance trials and best practices. This workstream will also support the implementation of robotics and automation in sustainable industries ensuring that autonomous technologies meet safety and reliability standards.