In 2014, the Rosetta Mission’s Philae lander was successfully deployed onto the comet nucleus. The Mission – which was the first of its kind – saw a huge contribution from the UK, making it a great achievement for British innovation. Following this, Major Tim Peake landed on the International Space Station in November 2015; this was the first time an astronaut from the UK has ever done so.
With some great space and aerospace developments in the past couple of years, we look at what we can expect in 2016…
Aerospace
CSeries: The highly anticipated Bombardier CSeries is due to be delivered to its first customer, Swissair, later this year. The expansion of its portfolio into single-aisle aircraft has seen its fair share of challenges however, with nearly 250 aircraft in the order book, 2016 will be a hugely important year for the company and its Belfast operation.
Farnborough International Airshow: ADS is thrilled to be hosting the Farnborough International Airshow. The show, which has been running for more than 40 years, it a truly international affair and we are looking forward to welcoming delegates from around the world.
Space
LISA Pathfinder: The UK’s space sector is unrelenting in its pursuit to pioneer key technologies. Its most recent venture – the LISA Pathfinder – is no different. Designed to investigate a completely new measure of gravitational waves in space, the Pathfinder will begin its six-month scientific mission on 1 March this year. The findings could have a huge impact on current scientific understanding.
BLOODHOUND: Designed to break the world land speed record, The BLOODHOUND is set to challenge the current speed (763mph) on 15 October this year. Led by a UK team, the launch, if successful, will draw a world-spotlight on the innovative R&D work the UK is capable of.
