Achievements in space 2011 lecture

On 21 November the Aerospace Network hosted the Achievements in Space – from Gagarin to Space Tourism lecture. This explored the great achievements in space exploration and travel and from a UK perspective how important the industry is to our economy and daily lives.

The evening lecture covered the following topics:

• History of man's interest
• Developments in propulsion systems for space
• Space tourism; what can be achieved and technology challenges to overcome
• Current and future satellite projects
• Importance of continued British involvement in the space industry

From the fiction of Jules Verne and Arthur C. Clarke to the V2 rocket, Sputnik satellite and Yuri Gagarin, space exploration has fascinated and challenged mankind for generations.

When the Vostok 1 launched Yuri Gagarin on the first ever human spaceflight in 1961; its immense impact led – ultimately - to such achievements as the Apollo missions to the moon, the space shuttle, and the international space station.

Space continues to play a vital role in our daily lives, with scientific and technological advances for satellite applications including security, defence and telecommunications. But what is next for the space industry?

Clearly space tourism is edging ever closer to becoming the new vehicle for commercial space. Currently available for a select few, space tourism provides a tantalising glimpse into a world that could become accessible for all as time progresses.

View the Achievements in Space – from Gagarin to Space Tourism presentations below