Khaled Abou Zahr

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A few of the top SpaceTech stories this week from our weekly news roundup: 👩‍⚕️ The size and health of the UK Space Industry was released: This new publication represents the latest annual research of the UK space sector. Key figures includes a 2.7% rise in income to £18.9bn since 2018-19, and direct employment growing 6.7% year-on-year to 52,000 - UK Space Agency 🚀 SpaceX Inches Closer to Increasing Starship Launches - SpaceX already holds the record for the most successful rocket launches of any private company, and soon it could ramp up its launch tempo even further. 💹 Investors Share Vision of Space Industry’s Future at ISSRDC - featuring our very own Lewis Alun Jones. 📈 AST SpaceMobile Stock Surges, Hits $5.6B Market Cap. The company’s market cap now sits at $5.6B, ranking it among the highest-valued space businesses in the world after SpaceX. 🛰 Astroscale’s ADRAS-J Continues to Make History: Successfully Demonstrates Fly-Around Observations of Space Debris. https://lnkd.in/eKK_zH7K

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Thank you to everyone who joined us for an insightful roundtable discussion yesterday in partnership with the UK Space Agency 🌟 🛰 We had an inspiring conversation on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by UK space SMEs as they move from early-stage growth to commercialisation. Together, we delved into the critical gap in support that emerging space companies experience as they transition beyond early-stage funding, and discussed the actionable ways to bridge it. Key themes included: 👉 The barriers to scaling for space SMEs and how the support landscape evolves as the industry matures 👉 Current UK financial support mechanisms that foster growth and attract investment, as well as potential new tools to further strengthen the ecosystem 👉 Opportunities for collaboration between UKSA, the investment community, and SMEs to ensure sustained support through Series A+ funding and beyond Thank you again to all our participants for their contributions to this important dialogue 🚀 Lydia Green – Lead Unlocking Space, UK Space Agency Sofia Chaves – Senior Project Officer Unlocking Space for Investment, UK Space Agency Lucas Bishop – Associate, Seraphim Space Sanjeev Gordhan – General Partner, Type One Ventures Shruti Iyengar – Investment Manager, Future Planet Capital Anatolii Papulov – CEO and Founder, NewOrbit Space Martin Philip – Director, Open Cosmos Patrick Zaitouni – Chief Strategy Officer, HawkEye 360 Steve Young – President of Satellite Missions, ICEYE David Ford – Partner, Silverpeak Julian Tsio – Director, Lazard Edmund Phillips – Senior Investment Partner, NSSIF Nigel Fox FCA – Chief Finance Officer, ALL.SPACE

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A few of the top SpaceTech stories this week from our weekly news roundup: 👩‍⚕️ The size and health of the UK Space Industry was released: This new publication represents the latest annual research of the UK space sector. Key figures includes a 2.7% rise in income to £18.9bn since 2018-19, and direct employment growing 6.7% year-on-year to 52,000 - UK Space Agency 🚀 SpaceX Inches Closer to Increasing Starship Launches - SpaceX already holds the record for the most successful rocket launches of any private company, and soon it could ramp up its launch tempo even further. 💹 Investors Share Vision of Space Industry’s Future at ISSRDC - featuring our very own Lewis Alun Jones. 📈 AST SpaceMobile Stock Surges, Hits $5.6B Market Cap. The company’s market cap now sits at $5.6B, ranking it among the highest-valued space businesses in the world after SpaceX. 🛰 Astroscale’s ADRAS-J Continues to Make History: Successfully Demonstrates Fly-Around Observations of Space Debris. https://lnkd.in/eKK_zH7K

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A few of the top SpaceTech stories this week from our weekly news roundup: 👩‍⚕️ The size and health of the UK Space Industry was released: This new publication represents the latest annual research of the UK space sector. Key figures includes a 2.7% rise in income to £18.9bn since 2018-19, and direct employment growing 6.7% year-on-year to 52,000 - UK Space Agency 🚀 SpaceX Inches Closer to Increasing Starship Launches - SpaceX already holds the record for the most successful rocket launches of any private company, and soon it could ramp up its launch tempo even further. 💹 Investors Share Vision of Space Industry’s Future at ISSRDC - featuring our very own Lewis Alun Jones. 📈 AST SpaceMobile Stock Surges, Hits $5.6B Market Cap. The company’s market cap now sits at $5.6B, ranking it among the highest-valued space businesses in the world after SpaceX. 🛰 Astroscale’s ADRAS-J Continues to Make History: Successfully Demonstrates Fly-Around Observations of Space Debris. https://lnkd.in/eKK_zH7K

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In the latest City Insider article for ABN, Bruce Andrews, Partner at Alderman & Company, explores how AI will boost aviation company valuations despite cautious approach to adoption. https://lnkd.in/e7W2QCXM #aviation #boeing #airbus #aerospace #mergers #privateequity

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Europe Spurring Investment in Defence Tech Start-Ups! The head of the €1bn venture capital fund, NATO Innovation Fund (NIF)'s Andrea Traversone, says Europe is "catching up very fast" with the US in terms of investment in defence technology start-ups. Geopolitical tensions and conflicts are driving investment in European defence tech start-ups. The NATO Innovation Fund has backed four start-ups directly and invested in four VC funds that focus on "deep tech" such as robotics, AI, space, and energy. European entrepreneurs are becoming enthusiastic about building dual-use technology, which can be applied to both commercial and defence applications. This trend is expected to continue, with many investors backing defence companies that have broader applications. The fund invests over 15 years, unlike most VCs which have to return funds within 10 years. Geopolitical tensions and conflicts are driving investment in European defence tech start-ups. Key Points: 1/ NATO's €1bn venture capital fund is backing four start-ups directly and investing in four VC funds that focus on "deep tech" such as robotics, AI, space, and energy. 2/ The fund aims to address a "market failure" where most traditional VCs fail to invest in more ambitious, long-term technology. 3/ Europe is "catching up very fast" with the US in defence tech investment, driven by geopolitical tensions and conflicts. 4/ The fund has backed companies such as Space Forge, ARX Robotics, Fractile, iCOMAT, and others. European entrepreneurs are becoming enthusiastic about building dual-use technology, which can be applied to both commercial and defence applications. The FT article highlights Europe's growing investment in defence technology start-ups, driven by geopolitical tensions and conflicts. The NATO Innovation Fund's long-term investment approach is unique compared to most VCs and allows it to focus on more ambitious, long-term technologies. The fund's goal is to enhance the safety of NATO's citizens and its technological edge. Source: https://lnkd.in/e9UzaMtK #DeepTech #Aerospace #Defence #Defense #NATO #VC #Investment #VentureCapital

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Some positive announcements in the Conservative Party manifesto today, in particular its support for the continued long-term growth of UK aviation, which can only be achieved via the sector’s successful delivery of net zero by 2050. It’s therefore welcome to see a commitment to UK SAF production via the SAF mandate and promised revenue certainty mechanism, together with renewed investment in zero emission technology and R&D. We also welcome the recognition of the importance of domestic connectivity, including via the recently reformed PSO regime and, on tax, the ruling out of any frequent flyer programme. #airlines #airports #aviation #travel #tourism #aerospace

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Happy to share some recent industry and portfolio news - it's been an exciting summer for the industry so far🌍 🛰 The Satellite Industry Association (SIA) has released its 27th annual report, highlighting record-breaking achievements. For the sixth consecutive year, the number of commercial satellites deployed into orbit reached an all-time high, with a 20% year-over-year increase. The industry also achieved a record 190 launches in 2023. As of the year's end, 9,691 active satellites are orbiting Earth—an astonishing 361% increase over the past five years. 💫 China's First Mega Constellation: China has entered the global race to deploy large satellite networks, launching the first 18 satellites of its Thousand Sails mega constellation. This ambitious project, aiming for a total of 1,300 satellites, marks China's initial effort to create a Starlink-like network in low Earth orbit. 🛰 Array Labs launched their first 2 satellites, a planned radar constellation to provide a 3D imagery of the globe - a near real-time digital twin of everything on the planet. This weekend SpaceX launched a mission carrying satellites for 7 Seraphim portfolio companies, including Array Labs (2 satellites), Ubotica Technologies (1), Spire Global (7 satellites), D-Orbit (1), Tomorrow.io (2), ICEYE (4) and HawkEye 360 (3). Additionally, two Seraphim Space Accelerator alumni, Cosmic Shielding Corporation and Sateliot, were also part of the launch. M&A and Growth: Lockheed Martin has announced its acquisition of smallsat manufacturer Terran Orbital in a $450m deal. Meanwhile, several public “New Space” companies reported strong growth: Rocket Lab saw a 70% year-over-year increase in sales, BlackSky reported 29% growth, and Redwire achieved a 30% rise. https://lnkd.in/eFuTdKf3 🚀 - in case you missed it!

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PwC's Skies Without Limits report has always been a useful asset for Coptrz and the wider UK Drone Industry. I remember reading the first one of these reports back in 2018, already two years into my career in drones, and not quite comprehending some of the figures thrown around! £16bn cost savings for UK business, £42bn impact on the UK economy 76k drones in UK skies by 2030. This latest version outlines some of the incredible work that the UK Drone Industry is doing, from the likes of Environment Agency, Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Pigs Can Fly, Team UAV, Cyberhawk™ & Plowman Craven. One of the key points raised is around BVLoS with the below statement meaning the UK could be lagging behind in this crucial area. Coptrz are going to keep pushing this point and champion the development of the UK Drone Industry: "...none of the organisations focusing on BVLOS consider they have achieved commercial volume in the UK."

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Several news stories that have impacted Seraphim and the broader space sector this week: Portfolio space growth: - AST SpaceMobile & AT&T sign commercial agreement: Portfolio company AST enters a commercial agreement with AT&T to provide their first space-based broadband network direct to everyday cell phones. This significant development marks a major step towards commercialising space-based broadband, a game-changer for the telecommunications industry. - Life360 and Hubble Network intended partnership: Fantastic news for Hubble is that the family location-sharing app Life360 will use its Bluetooth technology on its app. Hubble's breakthrough achievement of connecting Bluetooth devices to a satellite tracking network is designed to avoid previous limitations of Bluetooth location-tracking devices. - Tomorrow.io was awarded a $10.2 million contract from the Department of Defense to produce and deploy two satellites equipped with microwave sounders for military weather forecasting. - SatVu plans two new thermometer sats: SatVu has booked launches for its second and third satellites to restore its thermal imaging constellation. Wider space sector: European space company OHB System AG expects to wrap up a deal with KKR to go private within the next several weeks as it prepares for two key launches this summer. Read more here - https://lnkd.in/euyyPJ9E

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Thanks Enrique Oti for sharing these important points. What does Green Flag Ventures see in Ukraine with new drone tech? Fast Early Product Iteration (a few days to respond to feedback from the front is the norm, although I know of situations where changes have been made in hours) Fast Production (a thousand+ new model FPV drones in a month? no problem) Fast Procurement (months in UA vs years in the West) Economics Matter ($500 drones take out $500,000 tanks with ease. I couldn't even hazard a guess on the cost ratio for what took down the Moskva.) Add in the weekly adaptations to counter evolving EW and it is clear from this vantage point that everything has changed. Western countries must to rethink defence products, processes, procurement and where they spend.

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Cambridge University has today released a report outlining a five-year roadmap to help the aviation sector achieve net-zero climate impact by 2050. #aviation #airlines #airports #netzero #aviationindustry #airlineindustry

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🛰️🌍 Panel: The Role of SpaceTech in Supporting Geopolitical and Global Defence Agendas 🌍🛰️   In an era of rising global tensions and shifting power dynamics, the role of space technology in supporting geopolitical strategies and global defence agendas has never been more critical.   I was pleased to host an expert panel, recorded live at the Seraphim Space Investment Trust Capital Markets Day 2024, with two key industry leaders in the space sector: Steve Young, Head of Satellite Missions at ICEYE and Paul McCarter, CEO at ALL.SPACE   The discussion focused on how innovative satellite technology and space-based solutions are transforming global security frameworks, enhancing real-time intelligence, and providing crucial support to military and defence operations in an increasingly complex world. From monitoring conflict zones to safeguarding critical infrastructure, SpaceTech is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of defence and security on a global scale.   Catch the full insights from this thought-provoking conversation 🌐🛰️   #SpaceTech #GlobalSecurity #DefenceInnovation #Geopolitics #SatelliteTechnology #SpaceForSecurity #Seraphim #ICEYE #ALLSPACE #CapitalMarketsDay2024

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UK Takes Major Step Forward with New BVLOS Drone Rules for Infrastructure Inspection The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has just introduced groundbreaking rules that'll let drones fly beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) in certain areas, particularly for infrastructure inspection, according to the UK CAA. What's Changing with the New Policy? The new policy for atypical air environments (AAE) is a game-changer. It'll let drones operate BVLOS in areas where there's minimal risk of running into other aircraft. This is huge for companies looking to use drones for things like power line inspections and wind turbine maintenance. Sophie O'Sullivan from the CAA puts it perfectly: "As the potential for drone applications continues to expand, our new policy paves the way for new ways drones will improve everyday life." Real-World Applications Already Taking Off One of the first companies jumping on this opportunity is sees.ai, which is partnering with National Grid Electricity Transmission. They're tackling a massive job - maintaining about 21,000 pylons and 4,350 miles of overhead cable across England and Wales. "This ground-breaking innovation will help National Grid fulfil its commitment to providing clean, fair, and affordable energy to its customers," says John McKenna, sees.ai's CEO. Safety First Approach The CAA isn't just throwing open the gates - they're taking a measured approach. They'll work with select operators initially to test and evaluate the policy, ensuring everything runs smoothly and safely. These "atypical air environments" are specifically chosen because they're areas where conventional aircraft rarely operate. DroneXL's Take This development aligns perfectly with the growing trend of BVLOS operations we're seeing worldwide. The UK's approach is particularly smart because it focuses on infrastructure inspection - a sector where drones can immediately prove their worth and safety. Not only does this advance drone technology, but it also makes critical infrastructure maintenance more efficient and cost-effective. What do you think about these new BVLOS rules? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Photo courtesy of Billy Kyle. by Haye Kesteloo #Billy Kyle #BVLOS #Drone Technology #Drones #drone #drones #uas #uav

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🚀 Space: The Final Frontier 🚀 The space economy is no longer a distant dream but a thriving reality, with innovative launch vehicles and growing spaceport infrastructure making space more accessible than ever. Businesses are venturing into near-Earth orbits and beyond, where the potential for breakthroughs in human health, wealth, and wisdom is immense. SpaceTech is transforming industries, offering new avenues for growth. Companies can now participate in the space economy as creators of space-based products and services, suppliers supporting space activities, or consumers leveraging space advancements. This democratization of space opens doors to new possibilities, from commercial spaceflight and space tourism to in-space research and manufacturing. In the future, every company might be a space company in some capacity. The rapid advancements in SpaceTech present unprecedented opportunities for innovation and profitability. As space becomes more integrated into our daily lives, forward-thinking businesses will harness this potential to drive growth and achieve competitive advantages. Check Out This Video 📽 https://lnkd.in/etFgRwWP How will your business harness the power of space technology? 🌌 #SpaceTech #Innovation #FutureOfBusiness

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The Financial Times wrote a well researched long-read about how legacy defence tech is getting increasingly disrupted by drones. In particular, first-person-view (FPV) drones, have helped plug some of the shortages which have plagued the Ukrainian army. With Ukraine, itself, now apparently being able to manufacture 1 million of these FPV drones per year. Some startups which are pushing the technological edge of this trend are Helsing and Quantum-Systems from Munich, UK-based Malloy Aeronautics Ltd. or AeroVironment, Anduril Industries and Auterion Government Solutions in the US. The article is behind a paywal, but a screenshot is in the comments. https://lnkd.in/e2RCs6dj

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VC is shaping spacetech into a high growth ecosystem 🚀 With 174 deals signed in Q2 already, the industry has captured our attention 📈 The UK has the potential to be a market leader in the space. Does it have the elements to achieve success? Discover our insights below👇 https://lnkd.in/ecizePGv Written by: Marcus McGrigor #Spacetech #VC #Innovation #UKTech #Space #TechTrends #Startups #Investing #Aerospace #FutureTech #TechGrowth #VentureCapital

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