October 2024 Space Calendar: UK & Worldwide Events You Should Visit

Let us just say: this is going to be an exciting month for space enthusiasts all around the globe! Whether you’re based in the UK or looking at international conferences, there’s something for everyone. One of the major highlights is World Space Week, running from 4 to 10th October, which will bring together space professionals, students, and enthusiasts for a series of events aimed at celebrating space and its impact on our lives.

In addition to this global celebration, October offers a host of other key events and conferences that promise to provide valuable insights and networking opportunities within the space industry. Here’s a rundown of the events you won’t want to miss!

United Kingdom

[World Space Week] – Space and Climate Change | UK Launch Event

When? 3 October

Where? Stormont, Stormont Stormont BT4 3SR United Kingdom

The National Centre for Earth Observation, Northern Ireland Space Office and Space4Climate are holding a showcase of UK expertise and innovation in using information from space to address urgent climate challenges.   

A key message will be opportunities – including funding and investment initiatives – for the take-up of trustworthy data from space for commercial applications, novel climate products and informed climate decisions and climate action. Real world case studies will be at the core of the event along with face-to-face networking with data suppliers, funders, investors, policy-makers and climate entrepreneurs. 

[World Space Week] – Space For Our Future: Panel Discussion

When? 4 October

Where? Richmond Building, Portland Street Portsmouth PO1 3DE United Kingdom

Join space experts from the University of Portsmouth to discover how space impacts our everyday lives and what the space industry might look like in the future. From the way we launch satellites into space, to the effects of space weather here on Earth, the panel will share their insights into how the space industry is rapidly evolving, explain why we all need to care about space, and showcase the incredible work being done right here on our doorsteps.

The Universe and Neurodiverse – An evening with Robin Ince

When? 5 October

Where? Wymondham High Academy, Folly Road Wymondham NR18 0QT United Kingdom

An enlightening evening with renowned comedian and science communicator Robin Ince, exploring the fascinating intersection of the universe and neurodiversity. This unique event promises to engage attendees in thought-provoking discussions about how our understanding of the cosmos can be enriched by diverse neurological perspectives. Ince, known for his ability to blend humor with profound insights, will lead a conversation that not only celebrates neurodiversity but also highlights its importance in scientific discourse.

A New Space Economy

When? 7 October

Where? Institute of Physics, 37 Caledonian Road Kings Cross London N1 9BU United Kingdom

An exciting event on the future of space technologies, where industry experts, innovators, and investors will converge to explore the latest advancements that are shaping the new space economy. As space exploration and technology continue to advance at an unprecedented pace, this panel discussion will cover:

• The latest advancements in lunar and Martian exploration;
• The impact of private companies like Blue Origin, SpaceX and others on space exploration;
• Role of AI and Robotics on current and future space missions;
• Benefits of manufacturing in space;
• Satellite technology and its impact on Earth;
• Space-based solar power and how it could revolutionise energy on earth;
• Space debris and its growing threat;
• Geopolitical implications of the new space economy.

Don’t miss the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking discussions, and network with leaders driving the next frontier of human achievement.

[World Space Week] – Space and Creativity

When? 8 October

Where? Aspex Portsmouth, The Vulcan Building Gunwharf Quays Portsmouth PO1 3BF United Kingdom

From van Gogh to Giger, the night sky and space have inspired the highest levels of creativity and art. Join Professor David Bacon as he reflects on past highlights, and invites new collaborations between artists and scientists, to generate truly awe-inspiring new work. This event will take place at the Aspex Gallery. 

[World Space Week] – Space in the Movies – Science Fact or Fiction?

When? 10 October

Where? Spinnaker Tower, View Deck 1 Portsmouth PO1 3TT United Kingdom

Have you ever wondered what concepts from science-fiction could one day become reality? Join scientists from the University of Portsmouth’s Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation as they discuss the crossover between science and science-fiction. From space stations to warp drives, and wormholes to artificial intelligence, discover what science-fiction is close to becoming science-fact. 

Recommended age: 14+. Please note that children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 years or over and remain under the control and supervision of an adult at all times.

RAS Public Talk – Anna Von Mertens

When? 15 October

Where? The Royal Astronomical Society, Piccadilly London W1J 0BQ United Kingdom

an exciting public talk by the renowned artist Anna Von Mertens. Explore the intersection of art and astronomy as Anna shares her unique perspective on the cosmos. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insight into the universe through the eyes of a talented artist.

Visual artist and author Anna Von Mertens offers a layered portrait of astronomer Henrietta Leavitt who worked at the Harvard College Observatory at the turn of the 20th century and whose discovery is foundational to modern cosmology. Von Mertens will speak to the reverberations of Leavitt’s groundbreaking discovery, her creative methodologies, and the cultural context surrounding her work, as well as how appreciating Leavitt’s skill at attention helped Von Mertens cultivate her own. 

Designing the James Webb Space Telescope

When? 19 October

Where? The Royal Institution, 21 Albemarle Street London W1S 4BS United Kingdom

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has now been capturing glimpses of our Universe for three and a half years. But as the largest telescope in space, the design and development of JWST was no small feat. Join Astrophysics Division Director at NASA Mark Clampin as he discusses his own experiences in the design of the JWST, and how these design elements led to some of the ground-breaking science results it has yielded from observations of the early universe, the formation and evolution of stars, and the study of exoplanet atmsopheres. Looking to the future, Mark will also give a glimpse into two of NASA’s upcoming projects observing our universe. 

Family Event: Spaceship Earth with Tom Kerss F.R.A.S.

When? 28 October

Where? Southwark Cathedral, Southwark Cathedral London SE1 9DA United Kingdom

Join astronomer Tom Kerss for a fun, fact-filled, interactive talk about our incredible home planet Earth. Discover what makes it so special, and how astronomers may be close to finding other worlds like it elsewhere in the Milky Way.

Could there be alien life in our Solar System or beyond? Are we the aliens? Find out how Spaceship Earth makes life possible, protects us from dangers in space, and gives us the opportunity to study the stars and unlock their secrets!

Free Celestron Astronomy Evening

When? 30 October

Where? Herrick Way, Herrick Way Staverton GL51 6TQ United Kingdom

It’s going to be a night under the stars at Clifton Cameras. Bring your friends and family for a fun and educational experience exploring the wonders of the universe through telescopes provided by Celestron. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to learn about the cosmos from our knowledgeable astronomers!

WORDLDWIDE

Latin American Satellites Congress

When? 1-3 October

Where? Windsor Marapendi Hotel, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

The leading conference in the Latin American satellite market brings the most relevant topics for the industry and major technology users: business models, technological trends, commercial opportunities, civil and military applications, business strategies, major business verticals, regulations, and the participation of key leaders of the Brazilian market and international speakers.

Silicon Valley’s Premier Satellite Conference

When? 21-22 October

Where? Silicon Valley Space Week, Computer History Museum

Satellite Innovation takes place during the first two days of Silicon Valley Space Week (SVSW | October 21-24, 2024). This event provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and participate in the advancement of the space industry. Held at the Computer History Museum in the heart of Silicon Valley, it’s a pivotal conference for those passionate about shaping the industry’s future. Join to engage with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and forge meaningful connections that drive innovation and success.

Space Simulation Conference

When? 21-24 October

Where? DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Annapolis, Maryland, USA

The conference is a major international forum in space hardware environmental testing for research and development and qualification. It provides a unique opportunity for engineers, technicians and scientists from industry, government and academia to present and exchange information and ideas on simulating the space environment to develop and test space mission hardware.

MilSat Symposium

When? 23-24 October

Where? Computer History Museum, Silicon Valley, California, USA

MilSat Symposium is a pivotal event dedicated to bridging the communication gap between commercial space entities and the Department of Defense (DoD). By uniting industry leaders and defense decision-makers MilSat Symposium creates unparalleled opportunities for dialogue, partnerships, and real collaborations. Hosted annually in Silicon Valley, MilSat Symposium is additionally focused on bringing tech leaders, artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technology into space defense solutions.

Munich New Space Summit

When? 23-25 October

Where? Munich, Germany

The Munich New Space Summit serves as a vital platform for the convergence of experts, researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers to engage in discussions, share insights, and explore collaborations within the realm of commercial space exploration. The event encompasses diverse facets of New Space, including satellite development and initiatives driven by private companies and entrepreneurial endeavors.