Durham University Space Research Centre are hosting a Space Leadership Programme from 1-4 June, 2026.
Taking place at the Durham University Business School, this four-day course builds strategic understanding of key technologies, applications, industry dynamics, geopolitics, governance, law, and how to manage uncertainty.
Designed for those who are working in the industry as well as those who are keen to enter, this four-day workshop will show you where the opportunities lie and how your organisation can pivot, grow or lead in this rapidly evolving sector.
The growing global space sector is creating new opportunities for innovation, investment and sustainability. Yet, for organisations seeking to engage with space – or deepen their existing involvement, the landscape is complex. From technology innovation, regulation and commercial models to geopolitical risk and environmental responsibility, leaders must be equipped to make informed, strategic decisions.
This programme, delivered by academic and industry experts, will provide the necessary the insight needed to evaluate risks, identify opportunities and shape your organisation’s role in the rapidly evolving space environment.
Who Should Attend
This course is designed for professionals from a wide range of sectors who are seeking to deepen their understanding of the space domain, including:
• Engineering and advanced manufacturing
• Law, consultancy and policy
• Digital, data and information technology
• Aerospace, defence and logistics
Programme Overview
Day 1: The UK Space Sector:
• The UK Space Sector: Part I: Research and Industry
• The UK Space Sector: Part II: Defence and Security
• The UK Space Sector: Part III: UK Space Laws, Regulations, and Export Controls
• The UK Space Sector: Part III: UK Space Laws, Regulations, and Export Controls Roundtable: Challenges and Opportunities Ahead for the UK in Space
Day 2: The Physics and Technology of the Space Age
• The Space Environment and Orbital Dynamics
• Satellite Communications, Remote Sensing, and Earth Observation
• Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Technology
• Space Domain Awareness and Rendezvous/Proximity Operations
• Mission Design and Space Robotics
• AI Applications in Space
Day 3: The Space Economy, Business, and Innovation
• Space Industry Business Models
• Disruptive Innovation, Space Sustainability, and the Economy of Space
• Beyond the Hype: Future Applications in Space
• Obtaining Funding and Working with Primes
Day 4: Settling Accounts: Astropolitics and Law
• A Geopolitical History of the Global Space Age
• Assessing Military and Economic Space Power
• The Galileo Dispute and Political Risk
• The UN and International Space Law
Fees and Booking
£1,999 standard | £1,499 for North East England-based SMEs and universities.*
Price Includes tuition, lunches and a formal networking dinner.
To book your place email sparc@durham.ac.uk
* Discounted rate available to SMEs with fewer than 250 staff, less than €50 million turnover and are based in the North East Combined Authority (NECA) region. University staff must also be based at NECA-region institutions.