ESA sparks innovation at Space-Comm Expo

Space-Comm Expo – which took place on 11 and 12 March in London – welcomed 200 exhibitors, 250 speakers and 5000 visitors, including leaders of space agencies and international organisations, as well as representatives from industry and academia.

The expo’s opening address was delivered by British experimental physicist and science communicator Brian Cox, who took attendees on a journey into the next century of space exploration and commercialisation, highlighting how fundamental science will shape the space economy's future.

ESA’s participation was led by its Director General Josef Aschbacher, who outlined the agency’s vision for the space sector, focusing on enabling economic growth, sustainability and innovation. Josef discussed the changing landscape of the European space sector and its critical role for society and industry, as well as ESA’s efforts to create jobs and boost prosperity across Europe.

These activities were demonstrated across the expo, which was attended by dozens of emerging and established companies that have benefited from ESA support.  During the conference the UK Space Agency announced a significant increase in ESA contracts awarded in the UK.

Several other ESA representatives participated in panels and presentations to highlight key ESA activities, including Earth observation and climate action, the Moonlight programme to bring connectivity and navigation services to the Moon, and mitigating the threat of space debris.

Space-Comm expo was also attended by retired British ESA astronaut Tim Peake, who spoke about the new commercial era of exploration and the importance of STEM education for inspiring the next generation of space experts. This December, Tim will celebrate 10 years since the start of his long-duration Principia mission, in which he became the first British ESA astronaut to visit the International Space Station.

Other important milestones to take place this year include the 50th anniversary of ESA and the 10th anniversary of ECSAT’s Roy Gibson building.

Discover more about Space-Comm Expo in the images below: