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University of Leicester Space Scientists Welcome Report on UK Space Policy

Space scientists at the University of Leicester have given a cautious welcome to the House of Commons Science and Technology Select Committee's report on UK activities - 2007: A Space Policy (HC66-1) - published today (17th July 2007).

Leicester is one of the leading centres in the UK for Space Research and Education and played a significant role in the Select Committee's inquiry, providing written evidence and being among the select few groups asked in November 2006 to informally brief the committee before public evidence-gathering sessions began. In January of this year, the Select Committee also visited the University's Department of Physics and Astronomy and Space Research Centre before conducting one of only three evidence sessions held outside London at the National Space Centre.

The main conclusion of the inquiry is that the money the UK puts into space is vanishingly small compared to the benefits it can bring and that there should be increased support for space research. The Select Committee admit to being "..impressed and often surprised... by the range of activities undertaken in the space sector in the UK"

Prof Martin Barstow said "We're pleased that this report provides such strong support for space activities in the UK. We believe that space is important for encouraging young people into scientific careers, a key aim of the present government. A skilled workforce is essential for our space industry, which is a major contributor to the UK economy."

Professor George Fraser, Director of the University of Leicester's Space Research Centre, said: "The Select Committee have produced a very comprehensive assessment of UK space activities, They recognise the inspirational impact of space, and distance themselves from the present Government opposition in principle to human spaceflight and launchers, but have come out against radical change in the shape of a UK Space Agency. The Committee's recommendation that there should be a review of the health of space science and technology in the UK is of great importance to us here in Leicester".

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

University of Leicester:

Ather Mirza, press office, 0116 252 3335; 07711 927821; pressoffice@le.ac.uk

Professor George Fraser, Director of the Space Research Centre: 0116 252 3491
Email: gwf@star.le.ac.uk

Professor Ken Pounds, Emeritus Professor: 0116 252 3509
Email: kap@star.le.ac.uk

Professor Martin Barstow, Head of Physics and Astronomy: 0776 62 333 62

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

University of Leicester Department of Physics and Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Leicester has a 40 year track record of internationally renowned research and teaching, achieving top-ranking in England in the recent Guardian University Guide. There are currently around 40 full time academic staff supported by over 100 research, technical and clerical staff. Research income is in excess of 6 million pounds per year, among the highest per staff member in the UK. The Department also houses 230 undergraduate students, studying Physics degrees with specialist options in our core research areas of Astrophysics, Space Science, Planetary Science and Nanotechnology. The Department has a strong programme of education and outreach in schools and the wider community, running Space School UK and leading the University's partnership with the National Space Centre.

http://www.le.ac.uk/physics/index.shtml

Space Research Centre (SRC)

The SRC, part of the University's Department of Physics and Astronomy, is housed in the purpose-build Michael Atiyah Building, opened in two phases in 1998 and 2003. .

The Space Research Centre has strong links with the space programmes of ESA (Europe), NASA (USA), JAXA (Japan), ISRO (Japan), CSA (China) and the Russian Space Agency. The Space Research Centre is also closely coupled to the National Space Centre), providing the links that the National Space Centre needs into the space research community. Research scientists and students at the University of Leicester have a long and distinguished record of discovery in Astronomy, Earth Observation Science and Planetary Science Every year since 1967 has seen a Leicester-built instrument operating in space; currently, six operational satellites are carrying Leicester hardware. The University's space programme is international and broad-based with current participation in programmes funded by the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council the Natural Environment Research Council and the European Space Agency, The programme involves direct scientific collaborations with scientists in 11 different countries.

http://www.src.le.ac.uk/

University of Leicester

A member of the 1994 Group of universities that share a commitment to research excellence, high quality teaching and an outstanding student experience.

England's top ranked University for teaching quality and overall satisfaction amongst universities teaching full time students - National Student Survey 2005 and 2006
One of just 19 UK universities to feature in world's top 200- Shanghai Jiao Tong International Index, 2005 and 2006. Ranked as a Top 20 university by The Times Good University Guide and The Guardian University Guide