Mars probe is Britain's star part
Posted on: Tuesday, 16 December 2003, 06:00 CST
BEAGLE 2, the British probe due to land on Mars on Christmas Day, is a benchmark for the UK's space ambitions, Science Minister Lord Sainsbury said yesterday.
The spacecraft, which uses components made in Aberystwyth, combined advanced technology with innovative science, he said.
Both were key elements of the UK's Space Strategy, unveiled by Lord Sainsbury yesterday.
The strategy aimed to develop new space technologies and systems, promote the use of space, and enhance Britain's standing in astronomy, and planetary and environmental sciences.
Lord Sainsbury said, 'A key objective to this strategy is to build on the UK's outstanding record of scientific discovery. Space is recognised as one of the essential tools that will help us understand the earth, the solar system and the universe.
'The Government's decision to invest in Beagle 2 has demonstrated our commitment to achieving these aims through innovative and cutting-edge solutions.
'Beagle 2 is a benchmark project which will provide the UK with scientific and industrial capabilities for the future.'
On Friday, Beagle 2 is due to separate from the Mars Express spacecraft and begin the final leg of its journey to the red planet alone.
Early on Christmas Day, it is due to parachute down to the Martian surface, where it will search for signs of past or present life. Beagle 2 will be the first European spacecraft to land on another planet.
Britain is becoming increasingly involved in space exploration missions. In addition to Beagle 2, the UK has contributed to the ESA's SMART-1 moon mission. It will also play a part in future European missions to Venus, and Saturn's moon Titan.
The Space Strategy highlights the importance of researchers and private companies working together to open up new opportunities in areas such as telecommunications and global positioning systems.
GPS technology is forecast to have grown by 85% between 2001 and 2007. The technology is having an increasing impact on people's every-day lives, with GPS being used in areas such as in-car navigation, aviation safety and personal location devices.
Earlier this year, the Government agreed to become a major partner in the European Space Agency's Galileo programme to produce its own civil satellite system for navigation, positioning and timing applications.
Britain is also one of the largest European users of space for environmental science.
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