By Scott Wright

A NEW base for manufacturing nano-satellites is to be developed in Glasgow after Spire Global UK agreed a deal for bigger premises at Skypark in the west end.

Spire, which collects data from space to monitor aviation, maritime and weather patterns across the world, is scaling up its presence at the business park by switching to a facility spanning 29,511 square feet. Its new space will include a bigger nano-satellite and test facility, as well as offices, allowing it to expand its workforce in the city, backed by funding from the Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise.

Spire has had a base at Skypark for four years.

James Pearson, head of global communications, said: “Scotland has become a vital part of Spire’s European growth, as Glasgow has produced more satellites than any other city in Europe, including over 100 launched from Spire. New funding will enable Spire to establish a stronghold in the UK and continue to design, build, test, and integrate satellites entirely within one building in Skypark, Glasgow. Our aim is to offer the most effective weather forecast in the world and to make Scotland a leading region in the European space sector.”

Stephen Ellis, senior investment manager at Skypark owner Federated Hermes, said: “Skypark continues to attract high-quality and diverse names that are looking to expand.”