Wednesday 12 March
10:30 - 11:30 | Space Technology & Applications Theatre
Accelerating Space Innovation: The RTO Advantage
As the space sector advances, Research and Technology Organisations (RTOs) are driving innovation, collaboration, testing, and workforce development. This session explores how RTOs play a vital role in strengthening the space manufacturing sector by bridging the gap between academia and industry.
With a focus on the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), which is operated by the University of Strathclyde and part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, attendees will gain insights into how RTOs contribute to national space strategies, enhance technological capabilities through advanced materials and processes, and support the commercialisation of new technologies from concept to scale-up.
The session will also highlight examples of cutting-edge research and practical applications, including the development of a recoverable second-stage space launch vehicle —a concept designed to meet the future needs of the space economy. Following the presentation, join a 30-minute expert panel discussion featuring voices from academia, government, RTO leadership, and industry, exploring collaboration opportunities and the growing role of RTOs in advancing space manufacturing.