Space Enterprise Lab Touches Down at Surrey Research Park

Surrey Research Park, part of the University of Surrey, has strengthened its capabilities as a ‘launchpad’ for space innovation with the arrival of a new Space Enterprise Lab (SEL). The state-of-the-art facility was opened by Guildford MP Zöe Franklin at the Park’s flagship Surrey Technology Centre, expanding the reach of the UK’s network of Space Enterprise Labs.

Designed to provide cutting-edge technology and collaboration tools for businesses and researchers, the SEL will play a vital role in driving innovation in satellite applications, non-terrestrial networks, and space communications.

The SEL is part of the Satellite Applications Catapult’s UK-wide network of 14 innovation hubs and supports Surrey Research Park’s “Go Beyond Space” campaign which showcases how the Park offers much more than just an office address for space-sector companies.

With a proven track record in supporting successful space businesses, including industry leaders like Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL) and early-stage innovators in the SETsquared Surrey incubator, the arrival of the SEL will support the Park’s mission of supporting industry-academia collaboration and business growth.

After touring the SEL for the first time, Zöe Franklin MP said:

“Guildford has long been a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation, and I am incredibly excited to support the opening of the new Space Enterprise Lab at Surrey Research Park. Facilities like this play a vital role in attracting future-focused technology businesses to our town, driving inward investment, and creating highly skilled jobs for our community. As space technologies continue to evolve, it’s essential that we provide the right support, like Surrey Research Park offers, for businesses to grow, innovate, and collaborate.

“This new Space Lab will help local companies tap into national and global opportunities, strengthening Guildford’s position as a leader in the UK and global space and technology markets. I can’t wait to see the impact this initiative will have on both our local economy and the wider space industry.”

A ‘Launchpad’ for Space Innovation

Surrey Research Park is home to around 200 science and technology businesses, including a growing cluster of space-focused companies. The new Space Enterprise Lab adds to the Park’s thriving space and satellite community, reinforcing its role as a centre for cutting-edge research and industry collaboration.

Caroline Fleming, Director of the Surrey Innovation District at the University of Surrey, said:

“We are delighted to welcome the Space Enterprise Lab to Surrey Research Park. This new facility strengthens both the University of Surrey’s and the Park’s role in space innovation, providing new capabilities for supporting space businesses and enhancing collaboration.

“Our region has a rich heritage in space technology and the opening of the SEL at the Park enables us to better connect our thriving innovation community in Guildford with the wider UK space ecosystem. We’re grateful to the Satellite Applications Catapult and Space South Central regional cluster for enabling us to join this fantastic network of SELs across the UK.”

Dr Louise Butt, Director – Space South Central Enterprise Network, added: “The Space Enterprise Lab at Surrey Technology Centre embodies our mission to empower regional innovators while anchoring the region firmly in the UK’s space economy.

“By providing free access to cutting-edge tools and interactive workspaces, we’re enabling SMEs and startups to prototype solutions, host hybrid demonstrations, and forge partnerships across sectors—all within the University of Surrey’s thriving Innovation District.

“As part of a 14-lab national network, this facility ensures local talent can scale globally significant technologies without losing their regional roots. It’s not just a workspace; it’s a launchpad for the UK’s next-generation space ecosystem.“

Joining A Network of UK Space Leaders

The Space Enterprise Lab at Surrey Research Park joins 13 other SELs across the UK, including locations in Harwell, Leicester, and Glasgow. The nationwide network aims to connect space entrepreneurs, researchers, and businesses, ensuring they have the tools and support needed to drive space technology advancements.

Each SEL offers users free access to an innovation space with advanced technology to support their space business by using:

• VR headsets to visualize and interact with space data
• Interactive collaboration tools for hybrid meetings and demonstrations
• Flexible, modern workspaces designed to inspire innovation

To learn more about the Space Enterprise Lab and how to access its facilities, visit www.sa.catapult.org.uk/sel or contact sel@spaceenterprise.uk.

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Photos:

Top: Space Enterprise Lab Opens: (Left to Right) Caroline Fleming, Director of Surrey Innovation District at the University of Surrey, and Guildford’s MP Zöe Franklin showcase VR headsets – part of the new collaboration facilities at Surrey Research Park’s new Space Enterprise Lab.

Below: (Left to Right) Dr Lucia Fonseca De La Bella, Faculty Strategic Project Manager Space Sector, and Dr Susan Jason, Space Systems Engineer, join Dr Keith Ryden, Director of Surrey Space Centre, to try out the new collaboration equipment at Surrey Research Park’s new Space Enterprise Lab.