space | Licence To Code

On Tuesday, I attended the “Space2Connect” event, a space applications networking event run by the UK Space Agency.

The day was filled with talks, panel sessions and various challenge work shops. The talks ranged on topics from the government’s use of space data to the increase in global space-orientated communities, including talks of a new link between the UK and the Australian space agencies. There was even a talk first thing in the morning by theoretical physicist Professor Jim Al-Khalili which I unfortunately missed due to a late train!

A picture taken at the conference stage between talks

Also at the event was an exhibition room containing many different stands for space-based companies and start-ups to present what they’re currently working on. At one stand I even got to try on a VR headset as part of a demonstration about using satellite data to monitor building and land stability.

At the UK Space Agency’s own stand I had a great conversation about the increase in space-based competitions to encourage interest and entrepreneurship in such a growing sector. I also learnt that the man I was talking to had been actively involved in organising the Astro Pi competition in 2016, the year I won it!

While talking I learnt about the UK Space Agency’s SPIN- Space Placement in INdustry- award scheme. The SPIN scheme allow university students to apply for an 8-week (paid! always an good thing) placement at a number of space companies. It sounds like a fantastic opportunity and something anyone interested in a potential career in space technology or entrepreneurship should check out. You can find more out about the SPIN programme here.

While at the event I ran into Emily Gravestock, the head of Applications Strategy at the UK Space Agency and the one who came up with and brought the SatelLife competition to life. I was thrilled to be invited to speak on BBC Radio 5 Live with her to promote the competition as last year’s previous winner.

Following this we took a quick taxi across London to the BBC New Broadcasting house to appear on BBC live news to talk more about the SatelLife competition, its benefits and what an amazing opportunity it is. I had a great time, though I was extremely nervous appearing on TV with less than half an hour’s warning!

I had a wonderful time at the event (even if I was the youngest there by quite a way!) and would strongly recommend any student interested in the space sector to attend these events.