UK needs clearer vision to secure future in Space, says Royal Society

The UK risks missing out on one of the most significant technological and economic opportunities of the next half-century unless it adopts a more coherent, forward-looking vision for space, according to a new report from the Royal Society.

In the Space: 2075 report, launched today, scientists, industry leaders and academics examine the development of space science and technology, from early observational origins to today’s ubiquitous applications and to the wider exploration in the solar system and beyond. Rather than predict the future or state what a desirable outcome may look like, the report maps out possible developments that we should anticipate and be prepared for.

Space is already integral to our daily lives and economy, underpinning everything from satellite navigation and secure communications to weather forecasting and climate monitoring. The sector supports an estimated 18% of the UK economy and is growing 3.5 times faster than the broader economy. As technologies like reusable rockets and miniaturised satellites continue to drive down the cost of accessing Earth’s orbits, the number of actors and activities is rising sharply.

This growth brings enormous potential for society. Space technologies are crucial for tackling global challenges such as climate change and natural disaster preparedness. Space exploration continues to inspire generations and open up new frontiers for discovery, from the Moon to Mars and beyond. However, this rapid expansion also creates new challenges.

The report is published at a time when space is becoming an increasingly contested domain. Countries and private companies are competing to establish new infrastructure in orbit and on the Moon, whilst concerns grow over satellite collisions, space debris, and the militarisation of space. Without clear, coordinated governance, these developments could pose serious risks to global security, the economy, and the environment.

“We are entering a new era of activity in space, economically, strategically, and scientifically,” said Sir Martin Sweeting FRS, who co-chaired the report working group alongside astrobiologist, Professor Charles Cockell, and planetary scientist, Professor Suzie Imber.

“The UK has real strengths in space science, small satellite technology, engineering biology, quantum systems and communications. But without a co-ordinated, long-term approach we risk missing out on one of the most dynamic scientific and industrial opportunities of the century.”

The report calls on the UK government to set out a clear national ambition for space, invest in skills and long-term funding for research, and prepare society for the ethical, political and economic questions that lie ahead.

While the long-term future role of space is uncertain, the report argues that we cannot afford to be passive. Future missions to the Moon, Mars and beyond will raise challenging questions about ownership, scientific access and equity. A clear national strategy, backed by strong international partnerships, will help ensure the UK is prepared.

“These are not abstract, distant concerns, they are emerging challenges that we need to start to prepare for today,” said Sir Martin.

“We must be ready to confront complex ethical dilemmas, build resilient international partnerships, and ensure space remains a shared resource that benefits us all.”

The report was launched at a conference, Transforming our Future: the UK space sector, at the Royal Society today (3 June 2025), which brought together industry, academia, policy, and space experts to examine the future of the UK’s role in the space sector.