International science forum in Leicester to drive forward Polish-British space relationship

Two European Space Agency Astronauts will appear at an international conference being held at Space Park Leicester to further strengthen space science relationships between the UK and Poland.

The Polish – British Science Forum will provide a platform for key figures from both countries – including government officials, researchers, innovators, business, industry, and universities – to exchange ideas, views, experiences, and best practices in the field of space.

It will include appearances from the UK’s European Space Agency Astronaut Reserve Meganne Christian, Polish European Space Agency Astronaut Reserve Slawosz Uznanski and award-winning space scientist and presenter of the BBC’s The Sky at Night Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock, who is also Chancellor of the University of Leicester.

The event is a joint initiative of the British Embassy Warsaw, UK Science and Innovation Network, UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, UK Space Agency, Space Park Leicester, University of Leicester School of Business, and the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education.

Professor Nigel Bannister, Deputy Director of Space Park Leicester, said: “We’re very proud to hold this forum which will enable leading figures from both our countries to discuss our national priorities for space exploration and how we can address some of the global challenges we face.

“There will also be the opportunity to examine Polish and UK space policies, key challenges and possible solutions in research and space exploration, current Polish and UK space science, technology and exploration capabilities and priorities, and possible joint collaborations.

“People working in the field of space in Poland and the UK should not miss this event.”

Other highlights will include talks from representatives of the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education, the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, the Polish Space Agency and the UK Space Agency and a trade exhibition featuring leading UK and Polish space companies.

The forum will take place on Wednesday, December 11.

Additionally, the University of Leicester School of Business will host satellite events a day earlier on Tuesday, December 10. These will include a networking event for selected representatives of UK and Polish space companies. To request to attend this event, contact Dr Margaret Grzegorczyk-Nuttall at mag55@leicester.ac.uk.

All delegates are also invited to intend the panel discussion, ‘Beyond Earth: Navigating the Business Landscape’ at the University of Leicester School of Business at 6pm on Tuesday, December 10, which will be followed by a welcome reception.

For further information about The Polish – British Science Forum, and to register, visit https://event.britishembassy.pl/.

Main image: British ESA Astronaut Meganne Christian