A recent space industry research report conducted by Space-Comm Expo, the UK’s largest commercial space sector exhibition, says 57% of those surveyed predicted a growth rate of up to 20% in the next 12 months, with a similar percentage increasing their investments by the same margin.

Ahead of the third instalment of the event, industry leaders and experts shared the biggest challenges that need to be addressed for the space industry to reach its predicted heights. The shortage of skilled professionals, which poses a significant barrier to innovation and progress, supply chain issues and a lack of financial support and investment are seen as hampering the current growth potential of businesses within the sector.

Within the report, industry professionals emphasise the need for a global framework for commercial space business, increased financial support, and government upskilling initiatives to provide policy guidance, highlighting the growing need for collaboration across the sector.

A progressive catalyst, Space-Comm Expo, taking place 7-8 June 2023, is tackling these global industry challenges and solutions with the support of leading organisations, associations and government departments, including the likes of UKSpace, Ministry of Defence, ADS Group, Federal Aviation Administration, ESA and UKSpace Agency.

Latest speakers announced for Space-Comm Expo, include:

• Luke Pollard MP, shadow armed forces minister
• Natalie Moore, head of space policy, Ministry of Defence
• Dr Kai-Uwe Schrogl, president of the International Institute of Space Law, ESA
• Harshbir Sangha MBE, missions and capabilities delivery director for earth observation and low-earth orbit assets, UK Space Agency
• Libby Jackson OBE, head of space exploration, UK Space Agency
• Kelvin Coleman, office of commercial space transportation, Federal Aviation Administration
• Jennifer Rogers, chief architect for the payload and ground systems division, Northrop Grumman
• Dr Thomas Clayson, chief technology officer, Magdrive
• Aviv Kanelbaum, business development & marketing manager, IAI
• John Whalley, chief executive, Aerospace Wales Forum
• Giuseppe Sisinni, co-founder, head of sales, and CEO, EnduroSat Italy
• Doug Liddle, CEO, In Space Missions
• Doron Zauer, co-founder and general partner, Earth & Beyond Ventures
• Professor Stephen Hobbs, professor of space sensing and systems, Cranfield University
• David Edwards, chief executive, Royal Aeronautical Society
• Dr Richard Soden, space solutions program manager, Keysight Technologies
• Patricia Skelton, deputy head of astronomy engagement, Royal Observatory Greenwich

Collaborating with groups, such as UK Students for the Exploration & Development of Space (UKSEDs), Space-Comm Expo will be shining a light on the career opportunities and demand for the sector for the next generation of talent: “UKSEDS are excited to attend and be involved in the organisation of this year's Future Workforce and Meet the Engineer panels at Space-Comm Expo 2023. We are glad to continue our long-term partnership with Space-Comm, and for the opportunity to represent the voice of students and young professionals in the space industry at the UK's largest space event.”

Organised by Hub Exhibitions, in partnership with Farnborough International, this year’s future-focused education programme will be showcased across three dedicated theatres, Keynote, Small Sats and Future of Space, which will cover insightful debates, technology and product-led showcases, and keynotes sharing the opportunities and challenges that are shaping industry.

To register for Space-Comm Expo for free or to get more information on exhibiting, please visit the website below.

www.space-comm.co.uk