4colors Research has been awarded two separate contracts to advance optimization capabilities in the space and aerospace sectors. The first is a proof-of-concept contract from the UK Space Agency to develop sensor scheduling and resource optimization algorithms for the National Space Operations Centre (NSpOC). This project, part of the BOREALIS Algorithm Development programme under Innovate UK’s Contracts for Innovation scheme, aims to enhance the UK’s sovereign space domain awareness. The company’s technology integrates mathematical optimization with machine learning to dynamically adapt solvers, enabling the NSpOC to coordinate multiple sensor networks and respond to orbital congestion in real time.
In a concurrent development, a consortium led by 4colors Research has been awarded an NQCC SparQ grant for a project titled “Quantum-Accelerated Mixed-Integer Optimisation for Aircraft Loading.” The consortium includes Airbus, DNV, the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC), and ORCA Computing. This initiative focuses on utilizing hybrid classical-quantum computing to optimize cargo placement and fleet utilization in aerospace logistics. By addressing complex variables such as trim, center of gravity, and structural constraints, the project seeks to reduce fuel burn and CO₂ emissions for airlines and cargo operators.
The NQCC SparQ grant utilizes ORCA Computing’s photonic quantum systems to test the feasibility of hybrid optimization in industrial workflows. 4colors Research, based in Cambridge, has a history of performance in this field, having previously won the Airbus-BMW Quantum Computing Challenge and being named a semi-finalist in the XPRIZE Quantum Applications competition. These contracts further the company’s objective of commercializing algorithmic technology for supply chain and logistics optimization while strengthening the UK’s position in sovereign quantum and space situational awareness.
Consult the official announcements for the UK Space Agency contract here and the NQCC SparQ grant here.
February 24, 2026
