Why the business of space is everyone’s business

As of 2026, the UK space industry is a significant and strategic driver of the national economy, contributing over £19 billion in revenue and supporting tens of thousands of high-skilled jobs. Satellite-based services and data underpin roughly 18% of UK GDP, equivalent to approximately £454 billion of the wider economy. And the sector is growing exponentially.But this is just the tip of the iceberg. For the space industry to fully realise its potential it needs more of the right people to understand what’s happening and get involved. People like policy makers, investors, regulators, planners, communicators, lawyers and consultants.Dr Alice Bunn, the president of UK Space, and her panel of guests, Sam Alden co-CEO of Space Solar, Nick Shave managing director of Astroscale and Anushka Sharma founder of Naaut, discuss the surprising, awe inspiring business of space and make the compelling case for why more companies and investors should get involved. Contributors:Host:Alice Bunn, President of UKspace Dr Alice Bunn OBE FIMechE FRAeS CEng | LinkedInUKspace: Overview | LinkedInGuests:Nick Shave, Managing Director of AstroscaleNick Shave FRAeS | LinkedInAstroscale: Overview | LinkedInSam Adlen, CEO of Space SolarSam Adlen | LinkedInSpace Solar: Overview | LinkedInAnushka Sharma, founder of NaautAnushka Sharma | LinkedInNaaut: About | LinkedInKey topics covered:Impact of Space on Everyday LifePractical ApplicationsEnvironmental MonitoringGlobal SecuritySustainability and Innovation in OrbitSpace DebrisManufacturing in MicrogravitySpace-Based Solar PowerEconomic and Regulatory LandscapeCost ReductionInvestment and FinanceRegulation and PolicyThe Future of Space ExplorationNew PlatformsAcademic Contribution Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.