University of Exeter hosts inspiring Space Innovation event

Businesses, funders and academia gathered at the Met Office Collaboration Building to learn more about the rapidly growing UK Space sector at the recent South West Space Innovation Event.

The fully booked, knowledge-sharing and networking event, gave audiences an exciting opportunity to learn more about space-related challenges and funding opportunities, as well as providing the chance to develop collaborative capabilities.

Throughout the day, experts gave presentations on the challenges and opportunities of Space Upstream Services (design, materials, manufacturing, electronics and systems) and Space Downstream Applications (data, AI, communication, location and navigation).

Inspirational keynote speakers included Professor Mark McCaughrean, ESA Senior Advisor for Science & Exploration, Miles Carden, Spaceport Cornwall Director, Ian Jones, Goonhilly Chief Executive and Dr Maria Kalama, Innovate UK Space Innovation Lead.

During the afternoon, audience members were put into break out groups for discussion and building project collaborations. 

Conrad Gillespie, Impact and Partnership Development Manager for Space at the University of Exeter said: “It was an absolute pleasure to host our regional Space Innovation event, with such fascinating talks and an engaging audience full of innovative, like-minded people.

“The South West definitely has valuable assets, expertise and resources to strengthen the flourishing UK Space Industry, and we look forward to building collaborations going forward.”

Tim Culmer, Senior Consultant at Riskaware, a keynote speaker at the event, said: "As newcomers to the space sector, this event provided an excellent opportunity to engage with others in the industry. 

“The event provided an exciting range of presentations that helped us gain a better understanding of what the South West has to offer, and we were able to make a number of new connections which we hope will lead to exciting new projects in the future."