The importance of space is becoming more apparent, with the space industry now contributing around £7 bn to the UK economy, the global market in space systems and satellite-enabled applications due to increase by nearly tenfold from the present £62.5 bn to £543 bn, and the release of the UK Civil Space Strategy, 2008-2012 and beyond, which sets out the high-level visions for UK civil space activity, through five key objectives:

• win an increasing share of the global market in space systems, services and applications in the race to develop tomorrow’s economy;
• deliver world-leading exploitation of space systems for managing our changing planet;
• be a partner of choice in global scientific missions to explore the Universe;
• benefit our Society by strengthening innovation from space, and stimulate the creation of new products and services for everyday use;
• develop a major channel for skills development and outreach for a high technology future, and improve public and political recognition of the value of space systems as part of the critical national infrastructure.

"Space is an important global sector and I look forward to learning more about our activities in the UK. I am already impressed with the wide range of technological, scientific and commercial areas in which the UK is a world leader. I am keen that we build on these strengths." Ian Pearson - Minister of State for Science and Innovation

The British National Space Centre stands at the forefront of Britain’s space efforts. Formed from 10 government and research councils tasked with the coordination of UK civil space strategy, supporting academic research, nurturing the uk space industry and increasing the understanding of space science and the practical benefits it provides, it will be the driving force of the civil space strategy, implementing the objectives set out.

Public Service Events is pleased to announce Space 08: Exploring the Future, which will identify and examine the key rationales of the strategy. Utilising high profile speakers the morning plenary will take a closer look at the implementation of the space strategy and how the BNSC will control the delivery.

Carrying on the morning theme a cross-agency panel will debate in an open forum the achievability of the Civil Space Strategy and whether this can drive the UK forward, delivering a world leading space system, and increasing the economic benefits felt from this highly innovative and forward thinking agenda.

Space 08 will give delegates the chance to hear and question key organisational speakers, network with like-minded professionals and gain vital insights of how, by working in partnerships we can deliver the vision and ensure that the UK continues to be at the hub of the evolving space agenda.