Celebrating Award Success for Two Leading Women in the North East Space Sector
The North East's space sector continues to go from strength to strength, with researchers and innovators from across the region gaining national and international recognition for their work.
From cutting-edge space instrumentation to next-generation satellite communications, the achievements of individuals within our universities and research community highlight the world-class expertise that exists across the North East and the important contribution the region is making to the future of the space industry.
Recognition for Space Instrumentation Research
Congratulations to Professor Ariadna Calcines Rosario from Durham University, who has been named a TechWomen100 Winner.
Selected from more than 1,300 candidates, Ariadna was recognised for her pioneering research into Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) slicers for space missions, an area of technology that has the potential to support future space science and exploration.
The TechWomen100 Awards celebrate women making a significant impact across the technology sector, and Ariadna's achievement showcases both the strength of research taking place within the North East and the growing influence of women driving innovation in space technology.
Reflecting on the award, Ariadna highlighted the importance of resilience, passion and perseverance, hoping her journey will inspire students and early-career researchers considering careers in STEM and the space sector.
Aerospace and Defence Rising Star Award for Northumbria Researcher
Further success comes from Northumbria University, where Dr Amna Riaz has been named the 2026 Rising Star Award winner in Aerospace & Defence by SAE Media Group.
The award recognises emerging leaders making a significant contribution to the aerospace and defence sectors, making it a fantastic international achievement for both Amna and the wider North East space community.
Amna's research focuses on laser-based communication systems for small satellites, developing compact, high-speed optical communication links that could help transform how satellites communicate with one another and with Earth.
Receiving the award during World Space Week made the recognition even more fitting, celebrating research that could play an important role in the future of satellite technology and space communications.
Inspiring the Next Generation
These achievements are a reminder of the exceptional talent, innovation and research excellence found across the North East.
As the region's space sector continues to grow, successes like these not only enhance the North East's reputation on the national and international stage but also help inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators.
Everyone at Space North East England would like to congratulate Professor Ariadna Calcines Rosario and Dr Amna Riaz on their well-deserved recognition. Their achievements are a testament to the world-leading research taking place across our region and the exciting future ahead for the North East space community.
