Inmarsat space initiative

A joint government and industry initiative that aims to shape the future success of the UK space industry was launched at Inmarsat's headquarters in London (25 June).
An expert group, the Space Innovation Growth Team (IGT), has been formed from among the UK's leading companies, institutions and government departments involved in the sector to conduct an ambitious six-month review.
The Space IGT was unveiled at a joint event held at Inmarsat's HQ by UK science minister Lord Drayson, IGT chairman and chief executive of Logica Andy Green, and Inmarsat chief operating officer Perry Melton.

Initial report
The group is tasked with creating a 20-year strategy for the industry - and has until the end of 2009 to prepare an initial report for the UK government outlining the steps needed to build Britain's leadership in space.
It will seek views from the entire space industry, and industries such as entertainment, navigation and climate change that rely on space technology. It will set out the challenges and opportunities that govern future value creation, competitiveness and growth in the space sector.
The Space IGT will draw on leadership experience from some of Britain's top space companies, including Inmarsat. It will identify the future innovation, technology and investment priorities for the sector and other enablers of growth.

Source: Inmarsat

Career path
The group will also seek to create a "space aware" culture in the UK, with a space career path being defined for students wishing to enter the sector.
And it will consider how to ensure that government policy is better aligned to meet the future needs of the industry.

Lord Drayson said: "The space industry makes a significant contribution to our economy and we need to make sure that we do all we can to ensure it remains globally competitive.
"Space inspires our young people to get involved with science and the strategy will look at how to make our society more space aware and how to help the next generation of engineers, scientists and even lawyers to get involved in space."

Double-digit growth
Andy Green added: "Space is one of the few sectors in the UK economy that is enjoying almost double-digit growth and has the potential to do so for decades to come.
"We will set out ways to help the sector on its upwards trajectory, by ensuring that Britain has the necessary skills and policy framework, and a climate that fosters innovation."
Inmarsat's chief operating officer, Perry Melton, said: "Inmarsat is about to celebrate its 30th birthday. We started out as an intergovernmental organisation and now we are among the top FTSE 100 companies.

Talent pool
"In the course of that time, the investment in the UK and European space industries has been fundamental for our business."
Perry recounted how, 20 years ago, Inmarsat's owners considered moving to another country.
"The decision to stay here in the UK was driven by the talent pool in the UK and Europe, as well as the wide supplier base, including consultancy, satellite manufacturers and ground infrastructure manufacturers," he said.
"They provided the foundation for Inmarsat's decision to stay in the UK long term -because of the weight of the British space industry."