Business Development

Supporting the growth of new space entrants through Airbus expertise.

Technology Elevation

Increasing the Technology Readiness Level of the UK Space sector through the provision of state-of-the-art laboratories. 

Fueling the Space Economy

Fostering the future of UK Space through our affiliate programme. 

New facility in Stevenage

The Airbus Launchpad is a new innovation hub, designed to boost the UK space sector by connecting the most ambitious Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) with the resources and expertise of a global aerospace leader.

Supported by the UK Space Agency, the Airbus Launchpad fosters collaboration and growth, helping to secure the UK’s position at the forefront of the global space economy. 

Airbus Launchpad inauguration

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Innovation hub

Engage with Airbus professionals and utilise the multifunctional labs to accelerate your ideas through the technology readiness levels. Our new facility offers the following enablers for your success.

  • Access to a range of advanced engineering simulation tools.
  • Co-location and easy access to Airbus technical experts
  • Access to 6 multifunctional laboratories for:
    • Simulation and Modelling
    • Military Space Capability
    • Advanced Robotics
    • Rapid Prototyping
    • Fast-Fail Testing

Airbus is providing access to a wealth of resources and opportunities. SMEs can benefit from ad hoc Subject Matter Experts packages, gaining insights and expertise from Airbus’s professionals. The program offers access to state- of-the-art facilities, tailored for innovation and collaboration.

Additionally, Airbus will host regular accelerators, hackathons, workshops, events and conferences, creating a dynamic environment for learning and networking. SMEs will have the chance to showcase their products and services through customer demos, gaining valuable exposure. Furthermore, Airbus is committed to building an alumni community, ensuring that participants continue to benefit from the program long after their initial residency.

Airbus Launchpad inauguration

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Open reconfigurable workspace

Our open reconfigurable workspace is designed to support collaboration and innovation. With a capacity to host collaborative working for up to 50 people, this flexible space can be adapted to suit a variety of needs, accommodating up to 150 attendees.

Flexible layout for collaboration and events

• Capacity for up to 50 people (events up to 150)

• State-of-the-art IT infrastructure

• Comfortable seating and networking areas

• Adaptable for various activities (workshops, conferences, brainstorming)

What does our Digital Lab offer?

  • Advanced digital development platform infrastructure
  • High-performance computing and data visualisation tools
  • Satellite trajectory analysis and spacecraft system modeling
  • Support for a wide range of simulation activities
  • Elevates Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs)

 

What does our MilSpace Digital Lab offer?

  • Agile project support for military space and communications applications
  • Software development and cybersecurity testing
  • Addresses unique challenges of military space operations
  • Fosters collaboration between SMEs, startups, and Airbus experts

What does Rapid Prototyping Lab offer?

  •  AIT (Assembly, Integration, and Test) training areas
  • MS tooling and 3D printing capabilities
  • Quick and efficient development of physical prototypes
  • Interative design and refinement
  • Accelerates development process and reduces time-to-market.

What does the Robotics Lab offer?

  • Advanced robotics systems for space applications
  • VR 3D live twin capabilities (expanding)
  • Development and testing of robotic solutions
  • Supports a wide range of research and development activities
  • Fosters collaboration between academia, industry, and Airbus experts

What does the Fast-Fail Lab offer?

  • Mechanical testing equipment (ovens, hotplates, water baths)
  • Microscopes and metrology tools
  • Rapid experimentation and iterative development
  • Encourages “fail fast, learn faster” philosophy
  • Supports testing of new materials, components, and systems

What does the AR/VR lab offer?

  • Advanced AR/VR headsets
  • Digital twin capabilities (expanding)
  • Immersive environment for AR/VR applications
  • Supports training simulations and virtual prototyping
  • Enhances design, development, and communication processes

 

Reach out to us to express your interest at airbus.launchpad@airbus.com

Support from across our Industry Leaders

  • Successful SMEs are essential for the future of the UK space sector and I’m proud that we are able to use our position as the UK’s largest space company to lean in and support their development.

    Kata Escott
    Managing Director, Airbus Defence and Space UK

  • With my Stevenage constituency at the heart of the UK’s space ecosystem, it is vital that we champion small space start-ups alongside industry leaders. This ensures that we drive innovation and growth in the sector, to build resilience and ensure the UK develops the skills, capability and innovation it needs.

    Kevin Bonavia
    Member of Parliament for Stevenage

For more information on the Airbus Launchpad

Check out our Airbus Launchpad Brochure

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Airbus Launchpad Brochure

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Airbus Launchpad Brochure

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