From Lab to Orbit
Glasgow’s Launchpad for Talent
Glasgow’s space sector is underpinned by a steady pipeline of talent and research, thanks to the city’s world-class academic institutions. The University of Strathclyde, the University of Glasgow, and Glasgow Caledonian University each play a distinct and vital role in cultivating the expertise that fuels the region’s space economy.
University of Glasgow’s Space & Exploration Technology Cluster operates the Integrated Space and Exploration Technologies Laboratory (I-SET). Facilities include vacuum chambers, cleanrooms, 3D printing, and an ESA-funded space environment chamber for lunar and Martian research.
University of Strathclyde hosts the Strathclyde Space Institute, a multidisciplinary hub for space systems engineering, satellite applications, and robotics alongside being a key delivery partner in the recently announced Project PRISM. It also plays a key role in the Space Enterprise Lab Glasgow, and nurturing the next generation of talent through the Scottish Space School outreach programme.
Human Capital of Space
Glasgow and Scotland's space sector are expanding rapidly, with strengths in satellite manufacturing, data analysis and vertical launch. To sustain this growth, there's a significant demand for skilled professionals to design, build, and operate spacecraft and to process and use the data they generate. The increasing complexity of space missions and the need to ensure space sustainability also drive the demand for specialised technical and strategic skills.
Technical & Engineering Skills
- Design: Skills in aero-mechanical, electronics and software design are in high demand.
- Engineering: Systems engineering, spacecraft operations and maintenance are crucial.
- Software & Data: Expertise in data handling, processing, AI and data analysis for satellite information is essential.
- Manufacturing: Capabilities in small satellite and launch vehicle manufacturing are growing.
- "Quantum-space" skills: Secure communications, advanced navigation and precision sensing will become increasingly critical for space applications.
- “Photonics for Space” skills: Optical engineering, silicon photonics design, component testing for space environments and knowledge of space-qualified coatings.
Commercial & Operational Skills
- Business Operations: Roles in project management, finance, marketing and business development are needed.
- Launch & Operations: Skills for operating ground infrastructure and supporting launch services are important for the developing vertical launch sector.
Support & Research Skills
- Sector Support: Expertise in space policy, regulation and economic analysis is required to support the industry's growth.
- Research: Fundamental and applied research in areas like astrophysics, geospatial science, robotics and in-situ resource utilisation will form critical foundations for the sector.
Glasgow’s universities and colleges provide the highly skilled workforce that underpins the region’s space manufacturing and services. Students gain hands-on experience in engineering, electronics, data science, and software development, which feeds directly into local companies.
The University of Strathclyde offers aerospace, mechanical, and electronic engineering programmes, supported by dedicated research centres such as the Aerospace Centre of Excellence, where students often contribute directly to small satellite design, manufacturing, and testing projects.
The University of Glasgow provides higher training in advanced physics, AI, and remote sensing research, supporting data-driven applications in Earth observation and communications.
Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) engages with the space economy through its Research into the Space Economy (RISE) group and also conducts research on the environmental sustainability of the space industry, collaborating with organisations like the Satellite Applications Catapult on projects to reduce the sector's carbon footprint
Meanwhile, the City of Glasgow College provide vocational training and specialist skills in areas such as precision manufacturing, welding, and systems integration, building on the city’s long maritime and shipbuilding heritage and a key component of satellite manufacturing.
Together, these programmes ensure a steady flow of job-ready graduates who are familiar with both industrial processes and innovative technologies.
We placed ourselves in Cumbernauld because of the engineering capability we found in the central belt of Scotland.
Alan Thompson - Director of Government Affairs, Skyrora
West of Scotland Space Cluster
A Thriving Hub for End-to-End Space Innovation
The West of Scotland Space Cluster is home to nearly 50 organisations driving innovation across the full space value chain—from small satellite and launch vehicle manufacturing to advanced downstream data applications. Backed by a strong regional supply chain and world-class academic research in areas like quantum technologies and photonics, the cluster plays a key role in delivering Scotland’s end-to-end space capability. With assets like the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) and a vibrant ecosystem of universities and innovation partners, the region is a recognised hub for space-sector growth aligned with the UK’s National Space Strategy.
GU Rocketry
Glasgow University Rocketry (GU Rocketry) is a student-led society that designs, builds, and launches high-powered rockets, giving members hands-on experience in engineering, safety, and project management using industry-standard processes. With over 120 members across disciplines such as avionics, aerostructures, and propulsion, the team develops record-breaking rockets and experimental engines while also contributing to the local community through outreach, including summer schools and STEM engagement programmes. This combination of technical innovation and public engagement helps students gain valuable real-world skills while inspiring the next generation of engineers and space professionals.