OU academics contribute to House of Lords report on the UK space economy

The Open University (OU) has contributed to a new House of Lords report on the UK space economy, with several of the report’s recommendations reflecting evidence submitted by the University.

The report, The Space Economy: Act Now or Lose Out, published by the House of Lords UK Engagement with Space Committee, calls for action to strengthen the UK’s position in the fast-growing global space sector. It highlights the need for clearer strategic direction, more effective policy delivery and greater investment in research and skills.

A group of OU academics from the School of Physical Sciences and the School of Environment, Earth and Ecosystem Sciences provided written evidence to the inquiry earlier this year and have been cited several times in the final report. Their submission drew on the University’s expertise in planetary protection, space law, and policy development.

The Committee’s recommendations reflect the OU’s call for the UK Space Agency to streamline its grant funding process and introduce a more regular timetable for funding calls to support longer-term research and innovation. The report recognises the OU’s view that a strong research base is fundamental to maintaining the UK’s technological competitiveness and notes the funding challenges faced by universities and innovative UK technology firms.

Based on the OU’s evidence, the Committee also recommends that the Government focus on improving implementation and delivery of the current National Space Strategy rather than creating a new one. The report further echoes the University’s call for greater investment in skills, including funding for additional PhD studentships and postdoctoral fellowships in space-related areas, and supports the creation of a Space Skills Task Force to help develop the UK’s future workforce.

The OU’s research strengths in planetary protection and space law are also reflected in the report’s recommendations on shaping the global orbital environment and ensuring responsible approaches to space activity.