Growing UK space sector creates more than 3,000 new jobs

The UK’s space sector has seen growth in jobs and income while investing more in research and development.

Science Minister Amanda Solloway announced today that the industry has created more than 3,000 new UK jobs.

Findings from the latest Size and Health of the UK Space Industry report, commissioned by the UK Space Agency and delivered by know.space, show the sector is supporting a ‘highly skilled and productive’ workforce that’s growing across the country.

Science Minister Amanda Solloway commented: “The UK space industry is booming and this strong growth is a key part of our plans to level up and build back better from the pandemic, creating thousands of high value space jobs in regions right across the UK.

“As we look to fulfil our bold ambitions for space, including the first satellite launches from UK soil next year, I look forward to seeing the sector growing further with more young people pursuing exciting careers in space, all while helping to cement the UK’s status as a global space superpower.”

Dr Graham Turnock, chief executive of the UK Space Agency, added: “The UK is already a world leader in small satellite technology and applications, telecommunications, robotics and Earth observation, while British universities are some of the best in the world for space science.

“It is fantastic to see our innovative space sector investing in the future through increased commitment to research and development - and to see more and more jobs being created in this exciting industry.

“The UK Space Agency’s Spaceflight Programme aims to establish commercial vertical and horizontal small satellite launch from UK spaceports from 2022, providing a further boost for the sector.

“Growing the UK’s launch capability will also help bring new jobs and economic benefits to communities and organisations right across the UK, as well as inspiring the next generation of space scientists and engineers.”