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UK Space Agency plans to send all-UK astronaut team to space
Image source, Getty Images
Four astronauts from the UK could soon be heading into space on an all-British mission.
A plan for the trip is being developed by an American company that organises visits to the International Space Station (ISS).
The mission would see the team spend up to two weeks in orbit carrying out scientific experiments and participating in educational activities.
The last Brit to go into space was Tim Peake, who spent six months on the ISS in 2015.
What's been announced?
Image source, Getty Images
The news comes after the UK Space Agency signed a deal with the America-based space company Axiom Space for the two organisations to work together.
The mission would see UK astronauts launched into space, spending up to two weeks in orbit to carry out scientific research, demonstrate new technologies and participate in education and outreach activities.
However, there are still many details that we don't know yet - so far no crew has been chosen and plans haven't been announced on how the British astronauts would be selected.
The plans has been welcomed by many space experts.
Image source, NASA
UK space president Dr Alice Bunn said the agreement is an "incredibly exciting one".
Dr Paul Bate, chief executive of the UK Space Agency, explained: "This agreement paves the way for UK astronauts to conduct scientific research in orbit, and to inspire millions of us here on Earth.
"There is much to do, and this agreement is the springboard for the UK Space Agency, Axiom Space and the mission sponsors to assess how we best push forward the frontiers of knowledge and innovation, and showcase the power of space to improve lives on Earth," he added.