The UK Space Frontiers 2035 Astro, Planetary & Helio programme sets out a long-term vision to position the UK as a global leader in space science, with a particular focus on astronomy, planetary science, and heliophysics.
Led by the UK Space Agency’s Chief Scientist, Professor Adam Amara, the programme comes at a critical time. It follows the UK government’s identification of space as a ‘frontier industry’ under its Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan, part of a wider Industrial Strategy designed to drive innovation and economic growth.
One of the main goals of the UK Space Frontiers 2035 programme is to bring coherence to the UK’s approach to space science. By aligning the priorities of the UK Space Agency and the STFC through a unified strategic roadmap, the initiative hopes to maximise the impact of public investment. This coordination will enable the efficient development of future space-based missions and ensure that UK-led research remains at the forefront of global discovery.
The UK Space Frontiers 2035 programme uses inspiration from the US Decadal Survey model and hopes to develop a uniquely British framework, one that is scientifically robust, community-driven, and transparent.
A central part of the UK Space Frontiers 2035 programme is a strong commitment to community engagement. UK Space Frontiers will invite input from across the UK’s space science sector, including researchers, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders.
Through thematic panels, regional workshops, and an open call for white paper submissions, the programme will foster wide-ranging discussions on scientific priorities and opportunities.
These activities will not only amplify the voices of established researchers but also provide a platform for early-career scientists and underrepresented groups to contribute meaningfully to the UK’s future in space. A steering committee and thematic review panels will be created to evaluate submitted white papers, ensuring that mission concepts are prioritised based on their scientific merit and potential national benefit.
To make sure funding decisions are guided by proper evidence and long-term value, the UK Space Frontiers 2035 programme will commission independent feasibility studies on proposed mission concepts. These studies will assess the technical, scientific, and financial viability of potential missions before any formal investment is made.
This step is key to enhancing the productivity and efficiency of the UK’s research funding ecosystem. By supporting only those missions that are both feasible and impactful, the UK Space Frontiers 2035 programme aims to ensure the UK space economy continues to deliver huge benefits and global leadership.
UK Space Frontiers 2035 is designed with international collaboration in mind. The roadmap will help position the UK to lead or contribute to future missions from key partners, including the European Space Agency (ESA), particularly upcoming M8, F3, and mini-F calls, as well as potential bilateral efforts with agencies such as NASA, the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), and Japan’s JAXA.
By proactively shaping its scientific direction and aligning its resources, the UK hopes not only to contribute to the global space science agenda but also to ensure it plays a leading role in missions of strategic significance over the next decade.
Further details on how members of the scientific community and wider sector can get involved in the UK Space Frontiers 2035 programme will be announced shortly.
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