Durham University Business School, Waterside Building Lead with Confidence The global space sector is growing rapidly, creating new opportunities for innovation, investment and sustainability. Yet for organisations seeking to engage with space – or deepen their existing involvement – the landscape is complex. From regulation and commercial models to geopolitical risk and environmental responsibility, leaders must be equipped to make informed, strategic decisions.
Durham University’s Space Leadership Programme is designed for senior professionals across engineering, manufacturing, consultancy, law and digital sectors. Whether you're preparing to enter the space economy or already working within it and want to broaden your understanding of deeper policy, governance and sustainability issues, this four day course will give you the knowledge and confidence to lead effectively. Delivered by experts from Durham University Space Research Centre, the programme explores law, policy, orbital sustainability, innovation pathways, and commercial strategy. You’ll gain the insight needed to evaluate risks, identify opportunities and shape your organisation’s role in a changing space environment. If you're serious about building long-term capability in the space sector, this course offers the tools and context to lead with purpose.
Who Should Attend? This course is designed for senior professionals from sectors such as: Engineering and advanced manufacturing Law and consultancy Digital and information technology Aerospace, defence and logistics Ideal participants are: Exploring entry into the space sector Seeking to expand or diversify existing offerings Preparing for strategic leadership in high-growth, high-complexity environments.
Why Attend? By joining the Space Leadership Programme, you will: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the UK and global space landscape Learn about applications, technologies and regulatory frameworks Explore commercial models, investment strategies and risk management Assess your organisation’s space readiness and growth potential Build valuable networks with peers, academics and industry leaders.
Programme Overview
Day 1: The UK Space Sector The UK Space Sector: Part I: Research and Industry The UK Space Sector: Part II: Defence and Security The UK Space Sector: Part III: UK Space Laws, Regulations, Export Controls The UK Space Sector: Part III: UK Space Laws, Regulations, Export Controls Roundtable: Challenges and opportunities ahead for the UK in space
Day 2: The Physics and Technology of the Space Age The Space Environment and Orbital Dynamics Satellite Communications, Remote Sensing, and Earth Observation Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Technology Space Domain Awareness and Rendezvous/Proximity Operations Mission Design and Space Robotics AI applications in Space
Day 3: The Space Economy, Business, and Innovation Space Industry Business Models Disruptive Innovation, Space Sustainability, and the Economy of Space Beyond the Hype: Future Applications in Space Obtaining funding and working with Primes
Day 4: Settling Accounts: Astropolitics and Law A geopolitical history of the Global Space Age Assessing Military and Economic Space power The Galileo Dispute and Political Risk The UN and International Space Law
Fees and Booking £1,999 standard | £1,499 for North East SMEs* Includes tuition, lunches and a formal networking dinner. Accommodation is not included More information email: sparc@durham.ac.uk
