Congratulations to Major Tim Peake
Major Tim Peake has today made history as the first ever UK astronaut to travel to the International Space Station. Selected for the European Space Agency’s ‘Principia Mission’, Peake will be running space tests and maintenance checks aboard the Station for six months.
Today’s milestone is a clear indication of the growth taking place across the UK’s space industry; one of the country’s most exciting and technologically-advanced sectors. Currently the sector employs 34,000 people, turning over more than £11bn annually, £4bn of which is made through exports; by 2030 it is expected to support 30,000 new jobs, turnover £40bn annually and make £25bn through exports.
Last year, UK companies were heavily involved in the Rosetta Mission, a collaborative effort involving 15 countries led by the European Space Agency. Around 20 per cent of the technology on the Philae lander, which descended on the comet nucleus, was developed by UK companies, highlighting national expertise for the development of high-precision technology for use in challenging environments.
Paul Everitt, Chief Executive of ADS Group said: “Our sincere congratulations to Tim for a successful take off, we wish him all the very best for his mission. Watching the images of his rocket reaching orbit I was struck by his bravery and immensely proud that a Briton would be working at the International Space Agency.
“Tim is an inspiring figurehead for the UK’s burgeoning space sector. Already we are making a valuable contribution to this global industry through the development of important, precision technology. Tim’s six months at the International Space Station is a big signal for the rest of the country as to what’s possible, what’s interesting and why this work is important.”
The UK’s space industry is making a significant impact across a number of areas including satellites, with 40 per cent of all the world’s satellites made here. One of the most exciting technologies currently under development is being led by Airbus Defense and Space to assist in the clear up of space debris. Their preliminary design, e.Deorbit, incorporates a penetrating tip and crushable cartridge to help embed it in the target satellite structure.
Mission Facts
International Space Station facts:
- International space station has 15 partners
- The ISS orbits the earth every 90 minutes
- The speed limit on ISS is 28000 km/h
Tim Peake facts:
- Tim was born in 1972 – the same year the last person walked on the moon
- On launch, Tim will be sat on the right-hand side of the of the Soyuz capsule
- In 2009, Tim was appointed the UK ambassador for science and space-based careers