New UK space monitoring system planned
The United Kingdom is moving forward with the installation of new satellite surveillance infrastructure in Cyprus, investing £17.5 million to enhance space monitoring capabilities and protect critical military communications.
According to a report by The Register, the project aims to strengthen the UK’s ability to track activity in space and safeguard key assets.
Noctis-2 programme to boost capabilities
The project, named Noctis-2, will include advanced optical systems and potentially an infrared telescope, enabling continuous monitoring of geostationary orbits.
This capability, known as “persistent stare”, allows uninterrupted observation of specific points in space, according to a preliminary market engagement notice published on 16 March.
Operations controlled from the UK
The facility will be operated remotely by the UK’s No. 1 Space Operations Squadron based at RAF High Wycombe, with data transmitted to the National Space Operations Centre.
This will enhance the UK’s overall operational awareness in space.
Why Cyprus was selected
Cyprus offers ideal conditions for such a system due to its geographical location and clear skies, which allow better observation of satellites in geostationary orbit.
The presence of British Bases, including RAF Akrotiri, further increases the strategic importance of the location.
Closing a key surveillance gap
According to the UK Ministry of Defence, the project is designed to address a significant “capability gap” in space surveillance, particularly as the number of satellites increases and threats become more complex.
Protecting the Skynet network
A key objective of the system is to protect the Skynet satellite communications network, which is used for secure military communications.
Noctis-2 will improve the detection and assessment of potential risks to this infrastructure.
Building on earlier system
The new system builds on the earlier Noctis-1 project, developed by Spaceflux in 2023, offering enhanced monitoring capabilities for both low Earth orbit and geostationary orbit.
Technical and environmental challenges
The development of the facility comes with challenges, including weather conditions, remote access to certain areas and restrictions due to proximity to other military installations.
Cyprus role strengthened
The investment further strengthens Cyprus’ role as a strategic hub in the Eastern Mediterranean, expanding its importance from air and naval operations into space surveillance.
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