Matrix has had a number of key engagements across the space and technology sectors with high-profile report launches to international showcases, here’s a look back at our activities over the past few weeks.

Space Workshop

Matrix participated in a UK Space Agency (UKSA) / European Space Agency (ESA) / Invest NI workshop, which brought together leading stakeholders to discuss Northern Ireland’s role in the growing space economy and funding opportunities available. The event highlighted opportunities for collaboration and investment, with valuable insights shared by industry and government representatives.

 

Launch of the Matrix Space Scoping Study  

On 5th March, Matrix officially launched the ‘Building on our strengths, Northern Ireland’s Growing Space Industry’ report. Minister Caoimhe Archibald and Matrix Chair Robert Hill officially launched the report. The report outlines key recommendations for Northern Ireland’s space sector, emphasising areas of growth and innovation. Read the report here

 

 

 

 

5G Innovation Showcase

Attendees at the 5G Innovation showcase by Belfast City Council found out how 5G connectivity is powering digital technologies such as IoT, automation, AI, robotics and immersive technologies which are driving innovation and economic growth across many industries including advanced manufacturing, transport and logistics, creative industries, and public services.  Patricia O’Hagan (Matrix, Deputy Chair) was on the panel alongside another panel member, Mark Huddleston (Makers Alliance) Patricia shared insights from the recent Advanced Wireless Networks report by Matrix during the panel discussion.

Space-Comm Expo  

7 companies from N Ireland were showcased at the Space-Comm Expo with a session chaired by Robert Hill (Matrix, Chair, NI Space Cluster Manager and NI Space Director) The Matrix space scoping study provided insights for the discussion through the identification of 7 key pillars of opportunity for NI companies.  The event reinforced the importance of Northern Ireland’s contributions to the UK’s space sector and highlighted opportunities for future collaboration.

 

Farnborough International Space Show

The Farnborough International Space Show provided another platform for Matrix to share its work, with Lord Willetts engaging with the Space Scoping Study alongside members of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Space (APPG) The event reaffirmed the strategic importance of Northern Ireland’s role in the wider UK space industry.

 

 

Plenary Session – Queen’s Propulsion Laboratory (QPL) 

At our latest Matrix Plenary Session, we welcomed representatives from Queen’s Propulsion Laboratory (QPL) to discuss their work in space propulsion and the future of Northern Ireland’s aerospace sector.

Connected Futures Festival

Matrix was delighted to be part of the Connected Futures Festival, an event focused on emerging technologies, digital connectivity, and the future of innovation. Deputy Chair Patrica O’Hagan represented Matrix on the panel discussion alongside Jonathan Rose Ofcom,  Adrian Johnston MBE, Innovation City Belfast and Janet Burns BT Group  The event included some exciting demos from CWI, which explored key advancements in wireless technology, and showcased the leading edge work going on within the centre. Northern Ireland is clearly at the forefront of developing solutions to some key physical layer challenges presented by 6G.

 

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