Space Solar, the pioneering Space-Based Solar Power (SBSP) startup, has joined forces with neighbouring propulsion innovatorMagdrive to accelerate the development of large-scale in-space infrastructure. This strategic collaboration emerges from the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus space ecosystem.
Unveiled at the Farnborough International Space Show, this partnership between two of the UK’s most promising space technology start-ups has been formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding. The collaboration will operate under the newly formed Space Propulsion & Infrastructure Innovation Initiative (SPI³), representing a strategic alignment of complementary technologies essential for next-generation space infrastructure.
The initiative addresses a fundamental challenge in realizing space-based solar power: the need for efficient transportation, assembly, and maintenance of extensive orbital structures. Space Solar’s roadmap includes deploying its first 30MW SBSP system within five years, a goal that requires precise orbital manoeuvring and structural control capabilities.
Magdrive’s advanced propulsion technology offers a potential solution to these challenges. Their high-efficiency propulsion systems could be integrated into Space Solar’s upcoming demonstration missions, providing critical functionalities for orbit-raising, module assembly, and maintaining the precise configuration of solar arrays.
Sam Adlen, Co-CEO of Space Solar, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, noting that innovations in propulsion technology are fundamental to making large-scale space infrastructure viable. The collaboration aims to create specialized propulsion solutions optimized for the unique requirements of space-based solar power systems.
Mark Stokes, CEO of Magdrive, stated: “We’re excited to work with Space Solar, they’re building the future of space energy and infrastructure on a scale never seen before. By working together we’ll be propelling the space industry towards enabling sustainable life on earth. Here’s to the new space age!”
Beyond technological advancement, this partnership strengthens the UK space sector’s supply chain, creating opportunities for specialized jobs and fostering innovation across multiple domains. The initiative aligns with national objectives to establish leadership in both renewable energy and space technology.
As Space Solar progresses toward its upcoming milestones, the integration of Magdrive’s propulsion capabilities brings the vision of clean and sustainable energy from space increasingly within reach.
UK New Space Pioneers Join Forces: Space Solar and Magdrive Form Strategic Partnership to Build Space Infrastructure
