University College Dublin (UCD) received funding in the amount 1 million euros in recognition of its role in 'bringing Ireland into the space age' following the successful launch of the country's first-ever space mission, EIRSAT-1.
UCD became one of five Irish higher education institutions, which will share 5 million euros in premium funding from the Irish Higher Education Authority (HEA) for contribution to the implementation of national strategic and political priorities.
Minister of Education, of research, of Innovation and Science James Lawless congratulated the winners, emphasizing, that these initiatives demonstrate the significant and valuable contribution of the system of higher education and science to the economy, environment and society.
He noted, that the awarded projects cover a wide range of areas — from expanding inclusive digital education and overcoming social inequality to supporting entrepreneurship, sustainable development, training of engineers and scientists, as well as the development of Ireland's space ambitions.
EIRSAT-1 mission, implemented in cooperation with the European Space Agency (THIS), started in 2023 year. The satellite was created by students and faculty led by Professor Lorraine Hanlon, director of the UCD Center for Space Studies. Within the project more than 50 students gained practical experience in the fields of physics, engineering, computer science and mathematics.
The launch of EIRSAT-1 confirmed Ireland's ability to design independently, build and operate spacecraft, which became a key step in the formation of national space expertise and created the basis for the further development of the country's space sector.
Apart from UCD, by 1 Dublin City University also received a million euros, University of Maynooth, Trinity College Dublin and University College Cork. Each of them presented a case, which demonstrates a measurable contribution to the implementation of national priorities, which was evaluated by an independent expert commission.
HEA CEO Alan Wall noted, that the results of this funding highlight the diversity of ways, in which universities respond to national needs, global challenges and community requests. He also emphasized the importance of partnerships and international cooperation, which, according to him, will serve as a basis for the further development of the entire educational system.
Source: https://weatheire.com