22nd Appleton Space Conference
When:
3rd December 2026
Location:
ESA Magali Vaissiere Conference Centre, Harwell Campus and online
The Appleton Space Conference brings together the thinkers, innovators, creators and leaders to share the latest advances in space science and technology.
Programme
09:00 – 09:35 Registration and refreshments
09:35 – 10:30 Session 1: One governement approach to space
11:00 – 12:30 Session 2: Space for the benefit of all
12:30 – 13:30 Lunch and networking
13:30 – 14:15 Session 3: Keynote lecture
14:30 – 15:45 Session 4: From innovation to commercialisation
16:15 – 17:15 Session 5: What can AI do for the space sector?
17:15 – 17:20 Closing remarks
17:20 – 18:45 Evening reception
We will have an exciting line-up of speakers including:
- David Rothery, Open University, The BepiColombo Mission to Mercury
- Michele Dougherty, STFC, UKRI Space Champion
- Matthew Middleton, Southampton Space Institute, The (un)sustainability of satellite re-entry
- David Moffat, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, AI in Earth observation
Paul Bate - UKSA delivering "One government, one sector: a partnership for success" in 2025.
Sarah Beardsley opening the 21st Appleton Space Conference.
What is the Appleton Space Conference?
Beginning in 2004, the Appleton Space Conference brings together leaders from across the Space sector – providing a platform to discuss the latest development in Space, Earth observation and technology development.
This one day event features presentations, talks and panel sessions delivered by thought leaders in academia, industry and policy and provides key networking opportunities to share and learn. Our previous speakers include ESA Astronaut Tim Peake, Director of the British Antarctic Survey Professor Dame Jane Francis, and Chief Scientist at NASA, Dr James Green.
