North East Space Conference 2025: Shaping the Future of Space Innovation

The North East Space Conference 2025, taking place on 25th June at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Durham, promises to be an unmissable event for anyone interested in the rapidly evolving space sector. Bringing together the brightest minds in space innovation, the conference will explore the latest advancements, trends, and opportunities within the industry. Whether you're an established player or a newcomer, the conference offers a valuable opportunity to gain insights from industry experts, network with key stakeholders, and learn about the cutting-edge technologies driving the space economy forward.

Keynote Speakers: Leading Voices in Space Innovation

The conference will feature incredible keynote speakers who are shaping the future of space.

Matthew Archer, Director of Launch at the UK Space Agency, will deliver a keynote outlining the UK’s national launch strategy and its emerging commercial opportunities. With a focus on small satellite launches, Matthew will explore how the UK is positioning itself as a global leader in space operations, from design and manufacturing to launch logistics. His talk will highlight the North East’s role in this dynamic sector, focusing on the region’s engineering, manufacturing, and chemical processing strengths, and the collaborative work of industry clusters such as Space North East England and NEAME. Matthew will also explore how the UK Space Agency supports innovation and investment in space, fostering international collaboration through clear regulatory frameworks and targeted funding.

The second keynote, Ian Carnelli from the European Space Agency (ESA), will discuss ESA’s ScaleUp Programme, which provides funding and technical support to help European companies grow from small-scale prototypes to large-scale manufacturing. His talk will highlight ESA's efforts to support space hubs like the North East and will showcase how UK companies can access ESA’s resources to boost their growth.

Panel Discussions: Diverse Insights on the Space Industry

The conference will also feature a series of expert-led panel discussions, where some of the leading minds in the industry will delve into the key issues facing the space sector today.

Panel 1: The Business of Space Launch

This session will explore the commercial opportunities and challenges within the space launch sector. Chaired by Dr. Jo North, an expert in innovation strategy, the panel will feature industry leaders such as Andy Bradford (CTO, Orbex), Charlie Young (Co-Founder, Plastron UK), Matthew Archer (UK Space Agency), and Isabelle Valentin (COO, Latitude), who will discuss topics like small satellite capabilities, innovation in launch infrastructure, and the UK’s position in the global launch market.

Panel 2: How Did Your Business Pivot into Space?

For businesses looking to transition into the space sector, this panel will explore how companies from diverse industries have successfully pivoted into space. Panellists will include Aidan Wigham (Managing Director, MSP), Tudor Williams (CTO, Filtronic), and Yuri Andersson (CEO, Angoka). They will share their experiences of adapting existing skills and technologies for space applications, providing valuable insights into overcoming the challenges of entering this high-tech industry.

Panel 3: Why Are We in Space, What Are Our Key Capabilities?

This panel will focus on the North East’s growing contribution to space research and innovation. Leading academic figures from Sunderland University, Northumbria University, Durham University, Teesside University, and Newcastle University will discuss the region’s capabilities in space research, technological advancements, and academic-industry collaborations that are shaping the future of space science and technology.

Panel 4: Manufacturing of the Future, or is it of the Now?

As space manufacturing technologies continue to evolve, this panel will examine the present and future of manufacturing in space. With experts such as Samuel Moorcroft of BioOrbit Sam Adlen (Co-CEO & Co-Founder, Space Solar), Dr Rajan Bedi of SpaceChips and Rory Holmes - Clear Space this session will explore the role of commercial companies in developing manufacturing solutions in orbit, the impact of space manufacturing on satellite systems, and the challenges of creating sustainable space-based industries.

Panel 5: What Does Safer Space Mean?

Space safety is an increasingly critical issue as more entities launch and operate in space. This panel, chaired by Gemma Wilson (UK Space), will explore the technologies, strategies, and collaborations required to ensure the safety and security of space operations. Panelists like Ben Shaw (Senior Director of Space Systems, Lockheed Martin), Lee Jackson (Space Situational Awareness, Raytheon), John Worthy of FieldFisher and Dinz Dinsley (CEO, 3S Northumbria) will discuss the growing challenges of space debris management, collision avoidance, and the importance of creating a sustainable, secure space environment.

Get Ready for an Inspiring Line-Up of Exhibitors

We are delighted to bring together some of the most innovative companies in the space sector, showcasing their ground-breaking technologies and solutions. Whether you're a startup, an academic, or a seasoned professional, these exhibitors are pushing the boundaries of what's possible in space research, technology, and sustainability.

From cutting-edge satellite systems to groundbreaking advancements in space safety, manufacturing, and education, this conference will highlight the incredible talent and vision driving the future of space. Get ready to explore the latest developments and meet the minds shaping the space industry!

Here’s a preview of the exhibitors who you’ll meet at the conference:

• Nano Electronic Services Ltd

• 3S Northumbria Ltd

• AmbaSat

• NETPark

• Durham University

• Teesside University

• Sunderland University

• Northumbria University

• Newcastle University

• Filtronic

• Telespazio UK

• Plastron

• Nascent Semiconductor

• Muckle LLP

• Technia

• Raytheon

• Business Durham/DBG

• CyberNorth

• aXenic

• Invest North East England

• North East Combined Authority

• Mowden Controls

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with these leaders in the space sector, share ideas, and discover the technologies that will shape the future of space. Book your place now at North East Space Conference 2025.

Why Attend?

The North East Space Conference 2025 is more than just a conference—it’s an opportunity to be at the forefront of space innovation. With diverse panel discussions, engaging keynote addresses, and a chance to network with industry leaders and academic experts, attendees will walk away with a deeper understanding of the space industry’s present and future. Whether you're a business leader, an entrepreneur, an academic, or just passionate about space, this conference will provide you with the knowledge and connections you need to navigate and contribute to the ever-growing space economy.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this exciting event. Register now and join us on 25th June 2025 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Durham for a day that will shape the future of space innovation.