The president of satellite communications business Viasat says UK should “lead the charge” on regulating the space sector, as it opened its international HQ in London.
Viasat’s new base at Finsbury Square near Moorgate opened yesterday, in a vote of confidence for London as a centre for cutting-edge industries. At the office, engineers will work on 10 satellites that provide communications for shipping, internet for remote regions that currently have no connectivity and on-board wifi for planes.
The opening comes after Viasat bought British firm Inmarsat for $7 billion in 2021.
President Guru Gowrappan said putting the office in London made sense as “the UK Government is really focused on space innovation, the space ecosystem and the space economy”.
He said that the UK can be a major player in the space sector, playing an especially central role in coming up with regulations for the cosmos.
Gowrappan said: “The UK can be driving a lot of policymaking, as you think about space debris, or space sustainability, and making space exploration equitable for everyone”.
Minister for Space, Andrew Griffith said: “Viasat locating here in the UK is a testament to our country’s growing reputation as a global space hub where innovation can thrive and businesses flourish.
“As the UK continues to solidify its position as a major player in the space industry, Viasat's decision to establish its Centre of Excellence and global HQ here is a big vote of confidence in the UK’s space capabilities and potential.”
Jason Smith, President of Global Operations at Viasat and leader of the London office, said: “The official opening of our International Business Headquarters is an important moment for the company and underlines our commitment to the UK.”
