Environmental and Climate Payload Evaluation: Market Survey

Descriptions

The UK Space Agency are exploring the possibility of participating in a multilateral, non-commercial, environmental and climate monitoring mission led by an important strategic partner. The UK's involvement could initially take the form of contributing an additional instrument to the satellite, potentially supported by some form of data processing activity. While no decision has been made, we would like to survey the market to understand supplier capabilities regarding our proposed requirement. The mission aims to share data on a free and open basis to help address global scientific and public needs. A Sun synchronous LEO orbit is anticipated, at an altitude of ~800 km. The total weight budget available is up to 8kg. The mission timeline is ambitious, and public funds are being carefully managed through the latest Spending Review. We have a low risk appetite for this mission, so would only be able to consider an 'off the shelf' instrument with previous flight heritage, which could make a valuable contribution to the mission while being deliverable within 12-months (by August 2026) and with a ROM cost of £2m or less.