​This year, RAL Space marked the conference’s milestone anniversary with a special edition that celebrated both the event’s legacy and the last two decades of the UK space sector.

On Thursday, 5 December, RAL Space hosted its most attended conference to date, with over 200 delegates gathering at the European Space Agency's Magali Vaissière Conference Centre in Harwell, Oxfordshire, alongside 100 attendees online. The packed programme delivered a mix of compelling talks and dynamic discussions, all reflecting the sector's dynamic growth and innovation.

​Former RAL Space director Prof Richard Holdaway, current director Dr Sarah Beardsley and UKSA CEO Dr Paul Bate cutting a celebratory cake at the 20th Appleton Space Conference.

Insight and Inspiration

The day began with an address from RAL Space director Dr Sarah Beardsley, who reflected on two decades of progress and looked ahead to an exciting year ahead for UK space.

Throughout the event, attendees explored the far reaches of the cosmos and critical challenges closer to home. Prof Martin Barstow (University of Leicester) introduced NASA's upcoming Habitable Worlds Observatory, and Prof Emma Bunce shared the science potential of ESA's JUICE and NASA's Europa Clipper missions to Jupiter's icy moons. Meanwhile, Prof Chris Merchant (University of Reading) brought the focus back to Earth with insights into climate change and the vital role of satellite data in tracking global sea surface temperatures.

Prof Martin Barstow presenting on the Habitable Worlds Observatory.

Prof Chris Merchant presenting on global sea surface temperatures.

Entrepreneurship and innovation also took centre stage, with talks from three pioneering companies showcasing how cutting-edge science can translate into business success.

Highlights and Announcements

Among the day's standout moments was a keynote from Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, who delivered a thought-provoking talk, “A Beacon of Hope". His address reaffirmed the UK's commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and international collaboration in space.

Dr Paul Bate delivering the Appleton keynote session.

In addition to compelling discussions, the conference provided a platform for exciting announcements. Roger Eccleston, ​Executive Director of STFC's Large Scale National Laboratories launched the Small Satellite Calibration Facility (SSCF) – a joint initiative between RAL Space and the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) set to empower start-ups and SMEs by providing access to world-leading calibration services at short notice and a fraction of the cost. This initiative not only lowers the barrier to entry for aspiring space companies but also gives them a competitive edge through enhanced data quality and more reliable missions. 

​Team members from RAL Space and NPL following the launch of the Small Satellite Calibration Facility.

As per tradition, the publication of RAL Space's annual Highlights Report also coincided with the conference. This document showcases some of the department's success stories over the past year, and is now available to read online in PDF or interactive format.

Celebrating Two Decades of Progress

As the event concluded, Dr Sarah Beardsley reflected on the conference's 20-year journey, thanking the speakers, attendees and organisers who have contributed to its success over the years.

Recordings of the sessions (where speakers have given permission) will be available on the RAL Space YouTube channel in the coming weeks.

​Dr Sarah Beardsley closing the conference.