Formal plans to work together on joint projects were signed by Russian Federal Space Agency, Roscosmos and National Space Centre Ltd (Ireland) at the Roscosmos headquarters in Moscow on 21 June, 2012, during the Enterprise Ireland Trade Mission led by Minister of State for Trade and Development, Mr Joe Costello, TD.
The trade mission was organised to reinforce the Ireland Russia Joint Economic Comission (JEC) and to promote best-in-class Irish companies in the Information and Communications Technologies (ICT), Engineering, Construction Services, Food and Drink, and internationally traded services sectors.
The agreement, signed by Roscosmos Deputy Head Sergey Saveliev and Rory Fitzpatrick, Chief Executive, National Space Centre, provides a framework for both entities to work together to develop projects in areas of mutual interest. Areas specified include:
- OUTER SPACE exploration and research
- SPACE DEBRIS monitoring, prevention and reduction
- SATELLITE NAVIGATION and associated technologies
- SPACE COMMUNICATIONS, TV and radio broadcasting and information technologies and services
- GROUND SPACE infrastructure and its use
Signing the contract, Mr Rory Fitzpatrick said ‘This is a fantastic opportunity for National Space Centre and for Ireland, and begins a journey for Ireland to be part of future space activities while partnering with a global leader in this field. This will create many hi-tech jobs in this growth sector in Ireland.”
“Minister Costello and Enterprise Ireland have been highly effective in creating this opportunity to enable Irish business people access the Russian market. The trade mission showcased a very wide range of Irish companies out selling their products and services, which will in turn develop Irish jobs in a difficult home climate.”
Representatives from Roscosmos are due to visit National Space Centre at its base at Elfordstown Earthstation shortly to progress joint projects.