Durham University Space Research Centre was at the launch of the Royal Society's Space: 2075 report and had the opportunity to showcase our research along with colleagues from the Centre for Advanced Instrumentation.
The Space: 2075 report recognises that a dramatic change in space has already begun and encourages those in power to think about how we might better prepare for a range of outcomes, to ensure that activity in space is sustainable and benefits all of humanity.
Professor James Osborn, Director of Durham University Space Research Centre was a reviewer of the document.
Professor Osborn said:
“The exhibition was a refreshing mix of early-stage innovation from UK universities and future-focused talks. Many steered away from the usual sales pitches, instead offering grounded insights into where we’re heading – and what we’ve learned from the past. There’s real value in exploring big ideas – the so-called ‘moon-shot’ projects – especially as advances in AI, robotics, optics and launch technology make them more feasible. Even if some ideas don’t succeed, they still drive progress. But this needs to be balanced with sustained investment in the essential, next-generation technologies that will deliver meaningful impact. Independent, multidisciplinary scrutiny will be key in shaping space for good. That means we need greater transparency, better coordination, and the willingness to stop or pivot when necessary.”
“The exhibition was a refreshing mix of early-stage innovation from UK universities and future-focused talks. Many steered away from the usual sales pitches, instead offering grounded insights into where we’re heading – and what we’ve learned from the past.
There’s real value in exploring big ideas – the so-called ‘moon-shot’ projects – especially as advances in AI, robotics, optics and launch technology make them more feasible. Even if some ideas don’t succeed, they still drive progress. But this needs to be balanced with sustained investment in the essential, next-generation technologies that will deliver meaningful impact.
Independent, multidisciplinary scrutiny will be key in shaping space for good. That means we need greater transparency, better coordination, and the willingness to stop or pivot when necessary.”
The Space: 2075 report sets out a vision that recognises the transformative potential of space, and the responsibility we all share in making it equitable, secure and sustainable.
Read the report: Royal Society: Space 2075Photo L-R: Dr Cyril Bourgenot, Professor James Osborn, Dr PJ Blount
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