Archibald launches Matrix Space Pathfinder report
Date published:
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has launched a report that identifies how we might adopt and integrate satellite and space-based technologies into transforming public sector delivery.
The 'Northern Ireland Space Enabled Region Pathfinder' report was commissioned by the Northern Ireland Space Office, funded by the UK Space Agency, and facilitated by Matrix NI. It found that Northern Ireland is well placed to become a UK leader in the routine adoption of satellite-enabled technologies across public services.
Minister Archibald said:
“I welcome this report and its insights into the opportunities presented by space technologies. With our strong expertise in engineering, manufacturing and technology, we are well placed to harness these innovations to support sustainable solutions and improve the delivery of public services.
“Space technologies can help government make better-informed decisions, strengthen resilience and deliver real benefits for people and communities across the north. My Department looks forward to working with industry and academia to turn this potential into practical outcomes that improve people’s daily lives.”
The Pathfinder project has identified ten data themes, including mapping, planning, enforcement, environmental monitoring, agriculture, flood response, afforestation, infrastructure management and public records. The report finds that the strongest opportunities for this technology are those that cut across organisational boundaries, where a single dataset or service can benefit multiple departments.
The existing Geographic Information System (GIS) capability, and supportive policy environment provide strong foundations for scaling space-enabled solutions. The report concludes that the key challenge is no longer proving the potential of satellite-enabled technologies but creating the right conditions to enable adoption at scale.
Robert Hill, Chair of Matrix, commented:
"Picking up from where our Space Scoping Study left off, the report embraces earth observation technology and demonstrates its potential to address at least 77 use case scenarios. That is a highly significant number, spanning a wide range of scenarios, and shows just how much opportunity exists for the public sector to benefit from these technologies."
Lydia Green (Head of Unlocking Space) UK Space Agency stated:
"There is a significant opportunity for space-enabled technologies to support innovation and transformation across the public sector. By taking a place-based approach, the Northern Ireland Space Enabled Region Pathfinder has identified practical applications where satellite data and services can help tackle regional challenges, improve outcomes for communities and support economic growth. We were pleased to partner with the Northern Ireland Space Office and Matrix NI and look forward to seeing these findings translated into action across Northern Ireland and beyond."
Full report - Northern Ireland Space Enabled Region Pathfinder
Notes to editors:
- The report builds on Matrix NI’s March 2025 scoping study, 'Building on our Strengths – Northern Ireland's Growing Space Industry'.
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