King launches UK Space Agency project as final engagement in Bermuda

King Charles concludes his landmark two-day visit to Bermuda today by officially launching the UK Space Agency's Project Nova, an ambitious initiative designed to monitor debris orbiting Earth.

The monarch has made history during this trip, becoming the first reigning King to set foot on the British Overseas Territory in its four centuries of existence.

"I am told to my amazement it is also the first time in Bermuda's four-hundred-year history that the islands have received a reigning King," he remarked to guests at a garden party on Friday evening.

"I am terribly sorry it has taken so long!"

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The Project Nova initiative will see the establishment of a new UKSA observatory on the island, forming part of an international network spanning five locations worldwide.

This sophisticated system of telescopes will enable scientists to track defunct satellites, discarded rocket stages, and various other objects cluttering Earth's orbital environment.

Space debris has become an increasingly pressing concern for the global space industry, with thousands of fragments posing potential hazards to operational spacecraft and future missions.

During his visit to the observatory site, the King, who looked suave in a grey pinstripe suit paired with sunglasses to combat the glorious sunshine, received a comprehensive briefing on how this cutting-edge monitoring programme will contribute to safeguarding space infrastructure.

The King's final day will also include the official opening of the new Great Bay Coast Guard Station, where he will learn about the Royal Bermuda Regiment's Coast Guard and its vital role in defending the territory's waters and marine ecosystems.

His Majesty will be shown the regiment's latest technological capabilities, including unmanned underwater and aerial vehicles now deployed in their operations.

Young participants from the Junior Leader programme will have the opportunity to speak with the King about their experiences.

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Before departing, the King will present operational service medals to five regiment members in recognition of their dedicated service protecting the island.

Friday evening saw a reception at Government House, where the King has been residing throughout his stay on the island.

His Majesty noted to attendees that the residence had been so recently refurbished that it still carried the scent of fresh paint.

Raising his glass to toast the territory, the monarch expressed warm sentiments about Britain's relationship with the island.

"I need hardly say that Bermuda, like all the Overseas Territories, is a most cherished and important member of the British family with a friendship as solid as this so-called 'Rock'," he declared.

The two-day visit has underscored the enduring bonds between the Crown and its Atlantic territory.

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