Yesterday saw the launch of the new UK Space Agency to replace the existing British National Space Centre (BNSC), hoping to promote and boost the UK's multi-billion pound Space industry.
It is currently estimated that around 68,000 people are employed either directly or indirectly in the industry, with an annual input of around 6 billion pounds into the UK economy.
It certainly seems like a step in the right direction and good publicity for the UK Space industry. And hopefully it will help galvanise the industry and manufacturing side in areas such as satellites and telecommunications, at which the UK is among the best. Sadly though the area of Space exploration and manned Space flight seems to be taking a back seat.
From an educational aspect and speaking from many years of personal experience, I know how much the subject of astronauts, the moon and travelling in Space can grip children's imaginations and curiosity. I myself would probably have ended up as a lawyer (as is my family tradition) had I not been inspired at a young age by the stars, astronomy and the TV series 'Lost in Space'!
However, arousing the interest of young people is one thing . . . . . . . converting that curiosity into future generations of scientists and researchers is a completely different problem altogether. Unless money is spent to provide good science education and facilities, and to invest money in community based activities that continue to promote science as a part of everyday life, then all is lost.
It is currently estimated that around 68,000 people are employed either directly or indirectly in the industry, with an annual input of around 6 billion pounds into the UK economy.
It certainly seems like a step in the right direction and good publicity for the UK Space industry. And hopefully it will help galvanise the industry and manufacturing side in areas such as satellites and telecommunications, at which the UK is among the best. Sadly though the area of Space exploration and manned Space flight seems to be taking a back seat.
From an educational aspect and speaking from many years of personal experience, I know how much the subject of astronauts, the moon and travelling in Space can grip children's imaginations and curiosity. I myself would probably have ended up as a lawyer (as is my family tradition) had I not been inspired at a young age by the stars, astronomy and the TV series 'Lost in Space'!
However, arousing the interest of young people is one thing . . . . . . . converting that curiosity into future generations of scientists and researchers is a completely different problem altogether. Unless money is spent to provide good science education and facilities, and to invest money in community based activities that continue to promote science as a part of everyday life, then all is lost.
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