British astronaut helps launch UK Space Agency
The UK Space Agency, as it is officially named, took off with the help of British astronaut Major Timothy Peake.
But the accent at yesterday’s launch in London was on the dry realities of economics rather than Dan Dare.
Lord Mandelson was on hand to keep proceedings firmly grounded, despite the Science Minister Lord Drayson confessing that he would “like to see human beings living on Mars”.
The Business Secretary said: “I think it is important to remember that although it is cutting edge, this stuff is not sci-fi.
“It may start in space, but it comes down to Earth very quickly and is directly relevant to all our daily lives.”
Britain’s mini-version of Nasa will take overall responsibility for British space activities, replacing the soon-to-be defunct British National Space Centre (BNSC).
Operating initially from the BNSC’s headquarters in Swindon, it will for the first time allow all aspects of civilian space policy to be handled “under one roof”.
It is hoped the new agency will help Britain become more competitive in the global space economy, and make the most of the areas it excels in, such as satellites, telecommunications and robotics.
The recession-defying industry already contributes around £6 billion (€6.6bn) a year to the economy and supports 68,000 jobs directly and indirectly.
Over the next 20 years it has the potential to grow to a £40 billion industry and create 100,000 jobs, said Lord Drayson.
“The action we’re taking today shows that we’re really serious about space,” he said. “The UK Space Agency will give the sector the muscle it needs to fulfil its ambition.”
Major Peake, a test pilot in the Army Air Corps, is currently undergoing training in Russia prior to flying on missions to the International Space Centre.
He was one of six Astronaut Corps recruits chosen by the European Space Agency last year, and is Britain’s first “home grown” astronaut.
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