RAL Space Early Careers Conference 2026

This year we ask: what drives the future of the space industry? New technologies, growing commercial markets and changing international priorities shape what we do and the skills we will need in the future. We will explore what those changes mean for the next generation of the space community, and the role early careers people have in defining and delivering sector strategies.

Using the UK and ESA as a starting point, we will look beyond individual disciplines to consider the bigger picture. What opportunities and challenges will define the sector over the next 5 to 15 years? How will new technology change the way we use space? Which skills and cross-sector collaborations will we need, and where can early career professionals contribute?

Through talks, discussions, networking and opportunities to share work at this conference, the UK’s national space lab is bringing together people from STEM, business, government and the wider…