A funding boost for Scotland's "thriving space industry" has been welcomed by UK government ministers.
Scotland Office minister John Lamont confirmed the £373,000 support for Space Scotland, saying the money will be used by the space sector to help reduce its environmental impact and to address workforce challenges.
The UK Space Agency is awarding £6.5m to 18 projects across the UK in a bid to help the industry grow.
The Scottish space sector employs more than 8,000 people and generates some £141m in income for the country's economy. Almost a fifth of UK space jobs are based in Scotland.
READ MORE: Plan to promote jobs and economic growth in North of Scotland
Mr Lamont said: “This is more good news for Scotland’s thriving space industry and the many people who work in it.
“Last year the UK Government awarded more than £1.5 million to support Scottish-based satellite launch projects and space clusters.
“These new awards underline our vision for Scotland as a key contributor to the UK’s space sector, as we look forward to the first vertical satellite launches from Scottish soil.”
UK Space Agency chief executive Dr Paul Bate said: “Scotland is a global hub for satellite manufacturing, has vast expertise in data gathering and analysis, and will soon become a leading destination for satellite launch.
“Our new funding for Space Scotland will give a further boost to the space ecosystem and help realise its full economic potential.”
Science, Innovation and Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said: “These projects will tap into the wealth of talent found in places like Cornwall and the east Midlands, as well as across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, while using space and satellite technology to support local communities.
“This funding will help link local clusters to valuable networks of innovators and investors, showcasing the strengths of the UK space sector to international investors and levelling up the economy.”
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