Orbex to showcase employment opportunities at Space for Everyone event in Aberdeen this weekend
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A Forres-based satellite launcher is helping to showcase the burgeoning UK space industry at an event in Aberdeen this weekend.
Orbital launch services company, Orbex, is taking part in the UK Space Agency’s ‘Space for Everyone’ event at the Queens Links on Saturday, August 5 and Sunday, August 6, providing visitors with a glimpse into rocket-building and spaceflight, while offering activities, educational resources, and insights into operations.
Orbex CEO, Martin Coates, feels it is important to engage with local people whenever possible.
He said: "Particularly when we have the opportunity to inspire the next generation of space industry professionals. We're eager to showcase the work we’re doing at Forres and in Sutherland, and career paths available in this exciting industry.
"By bringing spaceflight to life, we hope to encourage an ongoing passion for STEM subjects and contribute to the government's ambition to create a sustainable spaceflight industry in Scotland."
Space for Everyone is a nationwide tour showcasing the UK’s space sector and career opportunities. Alongside a 72ft rocket replica, visitors will also explore interactive exhibits and learn about the role of satellites.
Orbex is taking part to address growing interest in the industry among locals, particularly the younger generation. They will be offering freebies, activity books for children and informational resources about the company's Prime rocket and Sutherland Spaceport.
Attendees will get to see videos showing the rocket and construction of the launch platform at a test site at Kinloss.
Aberdeen Science Centre (ASC) will be showcasing additional exhibits and demonstrations. ASC will share space-related items including a small satellite, a piece of the Moon and 4D space cards with images of the solar system, rockets and rovers, plus local satellite photos for people to match to different locations. The ASC team will also show visitors how to design their own paper rocket, use a gyro wheel and infrared camera.
Deputy CEO of the Aberdeen Space Centre, Elaine Holland, confirmed the event will be a lot of fun.
She said: “It provides a lot of joy when you can explain the workings of spacecraft and satellites to an enthusiastic audience. We hope that the demonstrations will encourage rocket engineers and space scientists of the future.”
Director of Launch at the UK Space Agency, Matt Archer, points out that the space sector requires employees from all backgrounds with a variety of skills.
He said: "The tour proves you don’t have to be a rocket scientist, or even an astronaut, as there are a host of talents needed to bring space closer to our daily lives and improve our understanding of this critical part of the environment for the benefit of the planet and its people.”
More information at https://spaceperson.co.uk/rocket-tour/
