Madeleine Russell
Head of Communications

Madeleine Russell leads the communications team at RAL Space, having been part of the organisation since 2017.

During this time she oversaw communications for the National Satellite Test Facility from initial funding to its opening and led communications activities for the international Ariel payload consortium. Prior to joining RAL Space, Madeleine held strategic communications roles in central government and spent four years at the UK Space Agency, where she led delivery of the national launch events for UK ESA astronaut Tim Peake’s mission to the International Space Station.

Throughout her career she has worked closely with partners across the space sector to strengthen public understanding of the UK’s capabilities and raise the profile of the industry at home and abroad.

As Head of Communications, Madeleine is responsible for RAL Space’s reputation and for promoting its role at the heart of the UK space sector. She leads activities to engage stakeholders, captivate public audiences, inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, and support internal communication that strengthens collaboration and helps deliver RAL Space’s strategy.