High-Speed Spectrometer System
The contract covers the purchase of a high-speed spectrometer system for attachment to a two-stage light gas gun at the University of Kent’s Impact Facility. The buyer, London and South East University Group, operates in the higher education and research sector, with the equipment supporting an ERC-funded PROSPER project investigating space debris and its effects on spacecraft and the atmosphere. The supplier is expected to provide a spectrometer system capable of high-speed measurements for laboratory simulation of hypervelocity impacts, supporting research into small debris detection, debris shape and damage, impact ejecta, and re-entry effects from deorbiting satellites. The estimated contract value is £115,833, although no contract duration or delivery timeframe is stated. Delivery is required in UKJ4, covering Kent and the surrounding London and South East England area. The key requirement is that the system must be compatible with, and attachable to, the Impact Facility’s two-stage light gas gun.
Buyer: London and South East University Group. Source: Find a Tender. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Key facts
- Estimated value: £115.8k
- Bids close: 20 Nov 2026
- Location: Kent, Bexley and Greenwich
- Procedure: Below threshold - open competition
- Contract period: 7 Dec 2026 to 1 Apr 2027
- Category: Spectrometers (38433000)
From the official notice
The Impact Facility at the University of Kent is looking to procure a High-Speed Spectrometer System for attachment on to a two-stage light gas gun as part of its new ERC funded project. The Impact Facility has been operating for over 30 years, focusing on the laboratory-based simulation of hypervelocity impact events relevant to spacecraft and planetary science. The Impact Group regularly presents results at national and international conferences and publishes across a range of science and technology focused journals. The funding acquired for this equipment is a European Research Council Consolidator Grant entitled PROSPER that has been awarded to Dr Penelope Wozniakiewiczs. The PROSPER project focuses on the growing issue of space debris, which poses a threat to orbiting satellites and continued safe access to space. The specific goals being addressed by the Impact Group will be: · Developing advanced detectors to better understand small debris · Studying how debris shape affects the damage it inflicts on spacecraft and ejecta that is created · Examining the potential side effects deorbiting satellites could bring when they re-enter the atmosphere
View the official notice
Questions about this tender
When is the deadline?
Bids close on 20 Nov 2026.
What is it worth?
The estimated value is £115.8k.
Who can apply?
Any supplier that meets the buyer's requirements can apply. Check the official notice for conditions.
How do I bid?
Open the official notice, register on the buyer's portal and submit your bid before the deadline.
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