The traditional academic model of isolated departments faces a fundamental challenge as solutions to global problems become more complex. Deep tech like Space requires collaboration across multiple disciplines—a reality that has shaped the formation of the new Surrey Space.
Having attended the Institute’s opening at the UK Space Conference, I realised how it represents a strategic evolution beyond conventional departmental boundaries, creating an umbrella organization that connects diverse centres and departments (including engineering, telecommunications, cybersecurity, law, bioscience and AI) to enable truly interdisciplinary education and research. This approach gains practical depth through the University of Surrey‘s relationship with Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL), providing students with hands-on industry experience that bridges academic learning with real-world application.
This comprehensive approach builds upon the established legacy of the Surrey Space Centre, which has served as a pioneering force in space engineering and research for over four decades. Founded in the late 1970s by Prof. Sir Martin Sweeting, the Space Centre helped transition the global space sector from Space 1.0 to Space 2.0 by demonstrating that small, cost-effective satellites could be build by university staff and students. This sparked the modern small satellite industry and established the foundation of the spin-off SSTL, which continues to operate from the Surrey Research Park.
The Surrey Space Institute integrates research, innovation, education, and practical experience to achieve five key goals that reflect both interdisciplinary collaboration and measurable impact:
1. Strengthen the capability to deliver technology and missions into space
2. Expand to include broader Surrey space activities across diverse disciplines
3. Become the UK’s premier institution for space skills training
4. Consolidate the position as the UK’s leading university for small satellites
5. Become the UK’s leading university for supporting the growth of SMEs in space.
The Institute’s vision centers on empowering the next generation of space professionals, strengthening industry partnerships, and developing technologies that serve both human needs and environmental sustainability.
Research efforts concentrate on three primary areas:
-Managing Earth’s water and climate systems
-Strengthening space infrastructure including satellite communications and cybersecurity
-Developing the technological tools and legal frameworks necessary for exploration and operations beyond Earth.
Through its inter-disciplinary approach, the Surrey Space Institute positions itself not just as an educational institution, but as a catalyst for addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity.
Surrey Space Institute: Bridging Disciplines to Tackle Global Challenges
