An agreement has been signed for AeroSpace Cornwall to deliver the UK’s first-ever Milo Ambassador programme.
The MILO Institute is a collective formed by Arizona State University, which has been at the forefront of space exploration since the 1960s.
Through the collaboration, AeroSpace Cornwall will be able access the institute’s resources and accelerate technology maturation across the growing space cluster in Cornwall.
It will work with Goonhilly Earth Station to deliver the programme, focusing initially on the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly region then expanding across the UK and the rest of the world.
The MILO Institute Ambassador programme is designed to provide members with access to a global network of mission, workforce development, and economic development opportunities.
The new MILO Ambassador is Major Chahal, who has established relationships with both the UK Space Agency and the European Space Agency. He recently joined the new business development team at Goonhilly where he will be focusing on Government and space agency growth opportunities.
David Thomas, executive director of the MILO Institute, said: “Advancements in space science are accelerated when we are able to create interconnected networks on a global scale, where governments, universities, and companies are able to create and transfer value across a multi-faceted ecosystem.
“We are excited for the opportunity to work with Aerospace Cornwall and Goonhilly Earth Station, who are pioneers in the new space ecosystem.”
Gail Eastaugh, director of innovation at AeroSpace Cornwall, said: “Our aim is to develop the space and aerospace innovation ecosystem in Cornwall and so we are delighted to be funding the MILO Institute Ambassador programme. This will connect Cornish businesses and stakeholders to global opportunities in the space sector, helping develop a sustainable economy based on cutting edge technology.”
Goonhilly CEO, Ian Jones, added: “This new contract to host the MILO Ambassador in Cornwall fits perfectly with our growth model. We can really leverage Major’s experience in the sector and this partnership with Aerospace Cornwall and the MILO Institute to assist other organisations to realise their ambitions in space.”
