Other areas of focus include 6G and direct-to-device communications; predictive systems to lower operational costs and extend satellite lifetimes; digital twins to model the behaviour of converged networks in near real time; and optimised data delivery for industries such as media, civil protection and healthcare.

Through collaboration with the AI Hub, companies will be given access to range of next generation facilities, including several rooms for demonstrating novel technologies, a technical lab for application development and testing, and a state-of-the-art private satellite communications network.

Antonio Franchi, Head of ESA’s 5G/6G Non-Terrestrial Network Programme, said, “AI is set to revolutionise the development of satellite and converged communications networks and our new AI Hub will ensure that Europe plays a leading role in this transformation.

“Building on the success of our previous and ongoing 5G/6G activities, we look forward to welcoming companies to the AI Hub to develop AI-empowered technologies and applications for the benefit of society and industry.”

Craig Brown, Investment Director at the UK Space Agency, said, “The UK is already home to world-leading space expertise, and ESA’s new AI Hub in Oxfordshire builds on that strong foundation. By bringing together AI and satellite communications in one dedicated facility, this initiative will help industry develop the technologies that will define how we connect in the future. The UK Space Agency is proud to back this investment, which will create real opportunities for businesses to innovate, grow and compete on a global stage.”