European Space Agency: Space for Monitoring Hazardous Materials

Innovate UK ICURe; Swindon; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job description

The Space For Monitoring Hazardous Materials Opportunity focuses on supporting innovative space-enabled applications for hazardous materials management. This includes identifying contaminated sites, monitoring toxic material degradation, and providing predictive insights for proactive remediation efforts. The initiative aims to address regulatory mandates and health concerns by leveraging advanced monitoring technologies. The scope covers various hazardous substances, including:

• Asbestos
• Heavy metals
• Chemical pollutants
• Radioactive waste

Particular emphasis is placed on compliance with international and national regulations. Proposals will be reviewed periodically; therefore, tenderers are advised to submit their activity pitch questionnaires throughout 2025, rather than waiting until the final deadline.

Kickstart activities explore the business opportunity and technical viability of new applications and services that utilize space assets such as Satellite Communications, Satellite Navigation, Earth Observation, and Human Spaceflight Technology. This call is open to companies (economic operators) intending to develop space-enabled applications and services to support environmental claims and labelling for hazardous materials monitoring.

Funding participation is open to groups, organizations, and businesses in ESA member states, including the UK. The size and nature of any potential funding are subject to authorization by the involved National Delegations. Bidding teams must obtain a Letter of Authorization from their national delegations and include it in their full proposal.

Hazardous materials pose significant risks to human health and the environment, necessitating systematic monitoring and safe removal strategies. International and national regulations mandate safe handling, which requires investing in advanced monitoring technologies to ensure compliance and protect workers.

Environmental and public health monitoring is crucial, especially for substances like asbestos, which pose risks to nearby populations, particularly in contaminated or improperly disposed sites. This highlights the need for systematic environmental monitoring, safe demolition practices, and secure waste containment.

Regulatory compliance and risk management are governed by strict frameworks to protect public health and the environment. Space-based technologies play a vital role in enabling large-scale monitoring and data-driven risk management to ensure compliance and proactive mitigation.

Workplace and occupational safety are also critical, as employees working with hazardous materials face health risks. Advanced tools, including space-based technologies, are essential for real-time monitoring and risk management to ensure workplace safety standards are met.

Space-based technologies include:

• Satellite Earth Observation (SatEO): Large-scale, regular monitoring of air, soil, and water quality; detection of contamination hotspots and hazardous materials using hyperspectral and optical imagery; supports regulatory compliance and reduces on-site inspections.
• Satellite Communications (Satcom): Facilitates seamless data transmission from remote sensors, especially in areas with limited infrastructure; ensures rapid responses and reliable communication among monitoring teams, regulatory bodies, and health agencies.
• Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS): Provides accurate location data for contaminated areas; optimizes device positioning; supports compliance, real-time data tracking, and mapping for hazardous materials management.

ESA offers funding and support for companies in business case assessment and development of new space-based services. The offer includes:

• Technical & commercial guidance
• Access to ESA network and partners
• Use of the ESA brand for your service
• Zero-equity funding
• Up to 75% funding by ESA for selected activities, up to 75,000 EUR

A supporting webinar will be held on Wednesday, 4 June, at 11 am CEST (10 am UK time). Registration is mandatory. A link and instructions will be provided prior to the event. If you need help finding a partner, contact Innovate UK Business Connect’s Space team. Find out more and apply.