Resilient Society
The Resilient Society theme at RAL Space brings together scientific, technical and operational expertise to safeguard infrastructure, strengthen resilience and improve preparedness for hazards originating both in space and within Earth’s atmosphere.
Our work spans space weather monitoring, orbital debris tracking, modelling of space‑environment interactions and the development of tools that help protect satellites, navigation systems, communications networks and critical national infrastructure. Through world‑leading science and operational capability, we support a safer, more resilient society on Earth and in space.
What we do
Through advanced monitoring systems and modelling tools, we help identify and reduce risks from solar storms, radiation, and debris.
The Resilient Society theme coordinates RAL Space activities that:
- Understand and forecast space‑weather hazards
- Monitor and track space debris and orbital objects
- Support national and international space‑safety frameworks
- Deliver data, models and tools that strengthen UK resilience
- Build partnerships that enhance sustainable use of the space environment
Resilient Society Theme Lead
Professor Ian McCrea
Professor Ian McCrea leads the Resilient Society theme, drawing on extensive experience in ionospheric physics, space‑weather science and operational space‑environment monitoring. Former head of RAL’s Space Physics and Operations Division, he has contributed to major facilities such as EISCAT and advises national and international bodies on space‑weather readiness and space‑debris tracking. His work underpins the UK’s preparedness for hazards in the space environment.
How we deliver this work
The Resilient Society theme is delivered through programmes that research the space environment, develop monitoring systems, improve forecasting and track activity in Earth’s orbit. These programmes provide critical capability for understanding solar storms, radiation environments, orbital debris and their impacts on national infrastructure, satellites and communication systems.
