As the UK’s national space laboratory, we partner with our community to make the world a better place by advancing knowledge and the use of space and the environment to the benefit of all.
As part of part of the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), RAL Space is the space hub for UK Research and Innovation, working to deliver the UK's national space strategy, by delivering on our own RAL Space Strategy.
Over RAL Space's 60-year heritage, we have been involved in over 210 space missions from early concept studies to space testing and data analysis.
Our mission
Our mission is to create and use our knowledge and expertise of space and the terrestrial environment to solve future societal issues, drive economic growth and strengthen our understanding of our place in the Universe.
We will inspire the world by unlocking the secrets of the Universe, create a better understanding of the Earth and its environment and protect it from the threats of space weather and space debris.
Find out more about our 60 year long history.
What we do
We employ over 350 highly skilled staff in the heart of the Harwell Space Cluster and at the Chilbolton Observatory. Our experts work throughout the lifecycle of space missions, from initial concept through to final testing Enabled by our staff, wider community, and our engineering and operational excellence we are driven to make a more resilient society, explore space and meet the demands of the environmental space community.
We provide:
- Data services
- Research, technology, and innovation
- Facilities
Supporting industry
We work with UK and overseas agencies, universities and industrial companies on space and ground-based space projects. Our unique position between industry and academia enables us to strengthen the UK space community and provide strategic advice to external partners.
Space careers
We provide a graduate training programme, apprenticeships and placement student opportunities, as well opportunities for engineers, scientists and technicians throughout their careers. Find out more about careers at RAL Space.
