Are we using every tool available to pull the emergency brake on climate change? This episode dives into the crucial role of space-based monitoring in tackling methane, a greenhouse gas that is far more potent than CO2 and a critical target for urgent climate action.
Host Dallas Campbell is joined by Spence Seaman from the Environment Agency and Charlotte Massey from the National Physical Laboratory to explore the technological leap that is allowing regulators to pinpoint "super-emitters" from orbit.
Spence explains the Environment Agency's Methane Action Plan and the challenge of regulating fugitive emissions from sectors such as waste and agriculture. Meanwhile, Charlotte details how the NPL is providing the essential measurement science to ensure the accuracy and traceability of this complex satellite data, which is now capable of detecting leaks at the facility scale.
With new satellites, such as Carbon Mapper’s Tanager-1, offering the ability to attribute emissions with a resolution of 50 metres, the data is becoming a game-changer for regulators and policymakers seeking to turn intelligence into enforcement. This conversation is essential for understanding how better data leads to better decisions and how the commercialisation of space is creating new accountability standards globally.
Spence Seaman: Energy & Resources Lead for Adaptation within the Environmental Permitting Regime (EPR) and Methane Action Plan at the Environment Agency. A veteran environmental regulator, Spence leads the Agency's efforts to focus on methane emissions, driving improved performance, better data quality, and the effective use of regulatory tools like leak detection and repair (LDAR) across industrial sectors.
Charlotte Massey: Strategic Business Development Manager for both Greenhouse Gases and Earth Observation at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL). Charlotte is responsible for the strategic direction of NPL's measurement science, connecting the UK's core measurement infrastructure to advanced technologies like space-based monitoring to ensure data quality, scientific agreement, and international traceability.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
Environment Agency: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Website
National Physical Laboratory: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, YouTube, Website
What does it mean to "design" in the context of space? In this bonus episode, we continue our conversation with service design expert Giulia Bencini.
While most of us think of physical objects like chairs or rockets when we hear the word "design," Giulia explains how her work is about solving problems and creating better experiences for users of space data. She shares how her team works directly with users—like farmers—to understand their challenges and then translates those needs into requirements for technology developers.
This conversation explores the vital role of creativity and playfulness in the design process, from user research to interactive workshops using Lego. Join us to understand how this human-centred approach is shaping a more accessible and user-friendly future for space technology.
Giulia Bencini: Senior Service Designer at the Satellite Applications Catapult, where she supports the space sector in adopting a needs-driven approach to technology development. Her work involves user research, facilitating workshops, and translating user needs into technological requirements for development.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
What if the key to unlocking the potential of space wasn't just in the technology itself, but in how we design it for people?
In this episode, host Dallas Campbell explores the surprising and critical world of user-centred design with experts Giulia Bencini, Vasant Chari, and Tim Dudas. They discuss how this approach goes beyond engineering, focusing on creating the right solutions for real-world problems.
The conversation highlights how listening deeply to users, from farmers to city planners, and testing ideas early can translate complex satellite data into tangible, beneficial applications on Earth.
Vasant Chari: Director of Regional & Local Growth at the Connected Places Catapult, he applies user-centred design principles to public transport and urban environments, focusing on human factors and real-world interactions.
Tim Dudas: Co-founder of Openstead, an early-stage startup that uses a software solution to incentivise adaptation in the built environment to reduce climate risk.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
Connected Places Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Instagram, Website
Openstead: LinkedIn, Website
Have you ever considered how space technology could revolutionise the public services you use every day?
In this bonus episode, we dive into the UK Space Agency's "Unlocking Space for Government" programme. Host Dallas Campbell and guest Gaurangi Bajpai explore the surprising ways space-based connectivity is addressing critical challenges in sectors like health and transport.
From ensuring remote GP surgeries have reliable internet to equipping ambulances with constant connectivity, this conversation reveals how space technology can solve real-world problems and drive significant innovation. We also discuss the importance of making this technology accessible and understood by the public, ensuring its widespread adoption.
Gaurangi Bajpai: A senior telecom systems engineer at the Satellite Applications Catapult, Gaurangi is a key expert involved in the UK Space Agency’s “Unlocking Space for Government” programme. She provides insight into how space-based technologies are being used to tackle connectivity challenges in crucial sectors like health and transport.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
Have you ever struggled to get a decent signal at a packed concert or a busy football match? You're not alone.
In this episode of In-Orbit, we delve into the world of ubiquitous connectivity and the innovative solutions being developed to solve this common problem. Host Dallas Campbell is joined by Mutasem Hamdan from Samsung Research and Gaurangi Bajpai from the Satellite Applications Catapult to discuss high-traffic enterprise spaces and the crucial role of private networks. They explore how projects like Arana are creating more reliable, efficient, and profitable connectivity for venues and local authorities.
The conversation also uncovers how satellite technology provides the essential resilience needed to support these new networks, ensuring seamless service and a better user experience for everyone. From live event drone deliveries to managing smart ports, discover how this technology is shaping the future.
Mutasem Hamdan: From Samsung Research, Mutasem works on AI for communication and is a key figure in addressing connectivity challenges for the future of 6G. His expertise lies in using machine learning as a tool to improve network performance.
Gaurangi Bajpai: Senior Telecom Systems Engineer at the Satellite Applications Catapult, Gaurangi focuses on ubiquitous connectivity. Her work involves integrating satellite connectivity into solutions for various industries to solve reliability problems in both standard and non-standard ways.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
Samsung Research: LinkedIn, Website
Have you ever wondered how we will fix satellites in space without astronauts?
On this bonus episode of Outer Orbit, we continue the conversation with Jeremy Hadall, the Robotics Development Lead at the Satellite Applications Catapult. He returns to share an exciting update on the ISAM (In-orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing) Facility, a unique "robot yard" designed to mimic the weightless, airless environment of space on Earth.
Dallas and Jeremy discuss the facility's recent £2 million upgrade, which includes an advanced Gravity Offload System and a new lighting system that simulates the sun's harsh glare in low Earth orbit. Learn how these new technologies are enabling the UK to become a leader in autonomous satellite servicing, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in space.
Jeremy Hadall: Jeremy Hadall is the Robotics Development Lead at the Satellite Applications Catapult. He is responsible for the design and development of the unique ISAM Facility, a terrestrial testing environment for in-orbit satellite servicing and assembly. His expertise focuses on using robotics to replicate the challenges of working in space.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
How can the space sector build a future-ready workforce equipped for innovation and sustainability?
In this episode of In-Orbit, host Dallas Campbell introduces a panel discussion from the ISAM Conference 2025 in Belfast, chaired by Vicky Jewell, Skills Lead at the Satellite Applications Catapult. The conversation brings together leaders from across government, industry, and academia to explore how to address pressing workforce challenges, including mid-career skills gaps, inclusivity, and the need for continuous training.
Guests share insights into successful initiatives like the Space Skills Survey, the Training Programs Fund, and the SPIN internship scheme, as well as strategies to encourage career changers and promote diversity of thought.
Bernice Huntley: Future Workforce Lead at the UK Space Agency, focusing on addressing skills gaps, supporting training initiatives, and promoting diversity in the UK space industry.
Calypso Kulasegram: Head of Operations at Orbit Fab, overseeing HR, procurement, finance, and recruitment, and advocating for inclusive hiring practices that drive innovation.
Kathryn Graham: Systems Engineer with nearly 30 years of experience in aerospace and space industries, specialising in CPD training, graduate development, and cross-sector recruitment for space.
Zaria Serfontein: Product Strategy Engineer at AstroScale, working across engineering, business, and policy to bridge gaps between sectors and support mid-career professionals entering the space industry.
Dr. Chris Toomer: Academic at the University of the West of England and member of the Space Universities Network, dedicated to building stronger links between academia and industry and improving access to space careers.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
UK Space Agency: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Website
Orbit Fab: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Website
Astroscale: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, YouTube, Website
KISPE Space: LinkedIn, Website
UWE: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Website
How can the space industry unlock the full potential of In-Space Assembly, Servicing, and Manufacturing?
In this episode of Outer Orbit live from the ISAM Conference 2025, Gary Cannon, Space Segment Lead at Satellite Applications Catapult, and Stella Tkatchova, Programme Manager for Space Systems at the European Innovation Council, explore why setting global standards is not just a technical requirement but a commercial necessity for sustainable and scalable space activity.
From interoperability in docking mechanisms to clear regulatory frameworks, the conversation dives into how shared protocols can lower mission costs, reduce risks, and attract investment. Stella shares her experience managing a diverse portfolio of space projects, highlighting emerging technologies in debris mitigation, in-orbit servicing, and in-space recycling.
Gary Cannon: Space Segment Lead at Satellite Applications Catapult, Gary is an advocate for open and interoperable standards in space servicing. His expertise spans technical design, commercial risk reduction, and fostering international collaboration in ISAM.
Stella Tkatchova: Programme Manager for Space Systems at the European Innovation Council, Stella manages a diverse portfolio covering space debris sustainability, enabling technologies, and Earth observation. With a PhD in Aerospace Engineering and extensive experience in ESA and EU programmes, she is a leading voice on ISAM and debris mitigation.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
European Innovation Council: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Website
What will it take for Europe to lead the global ISAM revolution?
In this special live episode of In-Orbit, host Dallas Campbell takes us inside the ISAM Conference in Belfast for a wide-ranging panel discussion on Europe's ambitions and progress in in-orbit servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM).
Featuring representatives from the European Space Agency (ESA), UK Space Agency (UKSA), Italian Space Agency (ASI), OHB, and GMV, the panel explores strategic priorities, mission developments, commercial opportunities, and regulatory challenges.
From pioneering demo missions and robotic assembly to tackling debris and building a circular economy in space, this episode highlights how Europe is taking bold steps in space sustainability. Discover how ESA is leading by example, what barriers industry still faces, and why collaboration, innovation, and risk-taking will be key to staying ahead in the growing global ISAM market.
Irene Huertas Garcia: GNC System Engineer at ESA, Irene provides institutional insights into ESA's evolving ISAM roadmap, sustainability efforts, and mission strategy.
Matt Cook: Head of Space Exploration at the UK Space Agency, Matt shares the UK’s policy direction, strategic goals, and investments in programs like ADRIOS and ClearSpace One.
Enrico Cavallini: Head of Space Transportation & In-Orbit Servicing at ASI, Enrico outlines Italy’s national ISAM roadmap and its pioneering demo mission for servicing and debris removal.
Timo Stuffler: Director of Business Development at OHB, Timo gives an industrial view on ClearSpace One, new-space challenges, and balancing innovation with regulation.
Juan Bevan: Head of Space at GMV, Juan highlights the company’s robotics, capture interface, and antenna assembly contributions to European ISAM projects.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
GMV: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Website
ESA: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Website
ASI - Italian Space Agency: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Website
OHB: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Website
UK Space Agency: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Website
What does it take to turn space tech into a thriving commercial industry?
In this bonus episode of Outer Orbit, host Dallas Campbell speaks with Manjari Chandran-Ramesh, Partner at Amadeus Capital and a new Non-Executive Director at the Satellite Applications Catapult. Together, they explore how investment in deep tech areas like AI, robotics, and quantum is shaping the future of the UK space sector. With a background in engineering and machine learning, and experience with early Google driverless car projects, Manjari brings a unique lens to the conversation on emerging technology and venture capital.
Manjari Chandran-Ramesh: Partner at Amadeus Capital and non-executive director at the Satellite Applications Catapult. She brings over a decade of experience investing in AI, robotics, and quantum technologies and has a PhD in machine learning. Manjari has helped scale deep tech businesses from research through to commercial exit.
Outer-Orbit is our bonus series where we share short episodes that continue the conversation from our main episodes, focusing in on a particular topic or point of view.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
Is your space startup truly investible?
In this episode of In-Orbit, host Dallas Campbell is joined by three leading voices from the investment world to unpack what makes the UK space sector so dynamic—and so challenging—for investors and founders alike. Manjari Chandran-Ramesh of Amadeus Capital Partners, Shruti Iyengar from Future Planet Capital, and Nayen Pankhania of the Satellite Applications Catapult share real-world insights on how the space tech landscape is evolving, what investors are looking for, and how founders can bridge the gap between engineering brilliance and commercial clarity.
The conversation covers everything from the rise of dual-use technologies and defence applications to the critical importance of clear product-market fit. Whether you're a deep tech founder navigating funding options or a curious listener trying to understand where the smart money is going in space, this episode demystifies the venture landscape and offers concrete advice on scaling, strategy, and storytelling.
Manjari Chandran-Ramesh: Partner at Amadeus Capital Partners and Non-Executive Director at the Satellite Applications Catapult, with expertise in deep tech and global investment strategy.
Shruti Iyengar: Investment Manager at Future Planet Capital, leading the UK Innovation and Science Seed Fund's space sub-fund with a focus on impact-driven startups.
Nayen Pankhania: Investment and Strategic Finance Director at the Satellite Applications Catapult, working to increase capital flow and commercial readiness across the UK space ecosystem.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
Amadeus Capital Partners: Website
Future Planet Capital: Website
What does it take to build a truly connected and collaborative space sector?
In this bonus episode of Outer Orbit, host Dallas Campbell sits down with Simone Hartless, Head of Capabilities and Clusters at the Satellite Applications Catapult, to unpack how the UK’s space ecosystem is evolving. From Connected Capability Networks (CCNs) to local space clusters, Simone explains the infrastructure behind innovation—linking academia, industry, and government across regions.
Simone shares how actively managed clusters and CCNs enable 'curated serendipity', creating environments where chance encounters become strategic collaborations. They explore the challenges of sustaining these networks, the role of cluster managers, and how national growth in space employment is being driven by regional participation. Whether you're an SME, a researcher, or just space-curious, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how space innovation is nurtured across the UK.
Simone Hartless: Head of Capabilities and Clusters at the Satellite Applications Catapult, Simone leads efforts to grow and connect the UK space ecosystem. She specialises in creating strategic networks that link industry, academia, and government to accelerate innovation in space data and technology.
Outer-Orbit is our bonus series where we share short episodes that continue the conversation from our main episodes, focusing in on a particular topic or point of view.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
What if the key to solving Earth-based challenges lies in space?
In this episode of In-Orbit, host Dallas Campbell explores Connected Capability Networks (CCNs) with guests Simone Hartless, Phil Carvil, and Jessie Hamill-Stewart. Together, they unpack how CCNs are transforming the UK's approach to space innovation by linking experts from space and non-space sectors. From cybersecurity to pharmaceuticals and even cosmetics, CCNs are creating "actively curated serendipity," enabling collaboration across disciplines that wouldn't otherwise intersect.
Listeners will hear how initiatives like the CyCCN bring together cybersecurity specialists and space domain awareness experts, while pilot programmes across the UK target agriculture, connectivity, and beyond-Earth solutions.
This episode offers a unique glimpse into how cross-sector innovation is driven by practical workshops, strategic roadmaps, and a commitment to demystifying space. It also explores the national strategy behind the networks and how they aim to foster sustainable growth, create jobs, and position the UK as a global space leader.
Simone Hartless: Head of Capabilities and Clusters at the Satellite Applications Catapult, leading innovation and business support services, cluster development, and national engagement across the UK space ecosystem.
Phil Carvil: Head of Clusters at the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), part of UKRI, focused on connecting regional science and innovation strengths through space cluster development and policy alignment.
Jessie Hamill-Stewart: PhD researcher in cybersecurity and space at the Universities of Bristol and Bath, and lead on the CySpace CCN. She specialises in securing space domain awareness and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
Science and Technology Facilities Council: Website
CySpace: Website
Can space help us live longer, healthier lives?
In this bonus episode of Outer Orbit, host Dallas Campbell is joined by Dr Martin Braddock, founder of GENIXICONSULTING and biopharma expert, to explore the cutting edge of space health innovation. From the surprising benefits of microgravity for drug development to the plausibility of human hibernation on long-duration space missions, their conversation covers the science fiction-sounding breakthroughs that are becoming science fact.
They delve into research on cellular ageing in space, the potential for torpor as a medical tool, and why structural biology in orbit could transform pharmaceutical pipelines on Earth. Braddock brings decades of experience and a unique perspective on how space could revolutionise healthcare.
Dr Martin Braddock: Founder of GENIXICONSULTING and former biopharma executive with nearly 30 years' experience in drug discovery and development. His work bridges academia and industry, with a focus on translating frontier science into real-world health solutions.
Outer-Orbit is our bonus series where we share short episodes that continue the conversation from our main episodes, focusing in on a particular topic or point of view.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
Could space be the key to better, faster drug development?
In this episode of In-Orbit, host Dallas Campbell explores how microgravity environments are reshaping the future of pharmaceuticals. With guests Dr Martin Braddock from GENIXICONSULTING and William Birch from the Satellite Applications Catapult, the discussion dives into why the absence of gravity enables better crystal growth, enhances drug discovery, and opens new possibilities for biomanufacturing in space. The episode unpacks both the science and commercial potential of conducting pharmaceutical R&D off-planet, from creating more effective drugs to future ambitions like 3D bioprinting human tissue in orbit.
The conversation doesn’t shy away from the challenges — including cost, regulatory barriers, and the need for new infrastructure. Whether you're a pharmaceutical innovator, space enthusiast, or curious about the intersection of health and space, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into how drug development could be transformed in the next decade.
William Birch: Strategic Account Director for Space at the Satellite Applications Catapult, where he connects industry players to drive R&D and economic growth in the UK space sector. Formerly worked in biomedical corporate finance with a focus on longevity research.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
What happens when drones meet autonomy, AI, and quantum computing?
In this bonus episode of Outer Orbit, Dallas Campbell dives deep into the drone revolution with Phillip Coglan, manager of the Drone Test and Development Centre. They unpack the evolving definition of drones, explore the incredible breadth of their applications across industries like agriculture, construction, defence, and even space exploration, and examine why drone development has skyrocketed in recent years.
Phillip explains how their facility supports testing, training, and innovation, including building a massive Kevlar drone cage to help companies meet safety regulations. From drone swarms and Mars rovers to autonomous flight paths and sensor integration, this conversation highlights how drones are rapidly shaping our future.
Meet the Guest:
Phillip Coglan: Manager of the Drone Test and Development Centre, Phil leads one of the UK's most advanced drone testing facilities. With a background in autonomous systems and a career starting in 2008, he brings deep expertise in drone R&D, safety compliance, and cross-industry applications.
Outer-Orbit is our bonus series where we share short episodes that continue the conversation from our main episodes, focusing in on a particular topic or point of view.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
How does space technology enable self-driving cars, autonomous drones, and next-generation logistics?
In this episode of In-Orbit, host Dallas Campbell explores the rapidly evolving world of autonomy with Chris Brook of the Satellite Applications Catapult and Jim Campbell of Sutherland Campbell International. Together, they unpack how advances in satellite infrastructure, AI, and real-time data transfer are transforming sectors from aviation and defence to public transport and shipping.
This conversation delves into the crucial role of space in providing connectivity and precision navigation, especially in environments where terrestrial networks fall short. They also discuss the UK’s opportunity to lead in setting global standards and regulations for autonomous systems. Whether you’re curious about the future of autonomous mobility, the intersection of space and AI, or the geopolitical implications of satellite technology, this episode offers valuable insights into the challenges and breakthroughs shaping the future.
Meet the Guests:
Chris Brook: Mission Manager at the Satellite Applications Catapult, Chris leads initiatives that apply space-based solutions to terrestrial challenges, with a focus on enabling autonomy through improved satellite navigation and connectivity.
Jim Campbell: Managing Director of Sutherland Campbell International, Jim advises high-tech and automotive organisations across Europe, helping them adopt innovative technologies, particularly in connected and autonomous mobility.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
Sutherland Campbell International: LinkedIn
Welcome to In-Orbit – the fortnightly podcast exploring how technology from space is empowering a better world.
This podcast is brought to you by the Satellite Applications Catapult, a UK technology and innovation company driving economic growth through the commercialisation of space, and hosted by writer and broadcaster, Dallas Campbell.
The UK has always played a pivotal role in transforming the space sector, but the opportunity for us to become a global leader is now. As a nation, we need to become the world’s best adopters of new space technologies, harness the strength of our industries, and exploit the benefits of being in orbit.
Across this new series, we’ll be in conversation with the expert minds behind these new innovations, exploring the ways that the UK is translating data from space into real-world impact.
Join us on our journey exploring how the UK is using space to make huge differences to our everyday lives, as well as gaining a better understanding of its role in shaping – and sustaining – our planet for the future.
Satellite Applications Catapult: Website, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook
Today, in our series finale, our host Dallas Campbell is sitting down one-on-one with the CEO of the Satellite Applications Catapult, John Abbott.
We dive into John’s career journey and what inspired his entry into the space industry, eventually leading him to helm the Catapult. Alongside his vision for our future, we explore the role of collaboration - bridging efforts with government, non-space industries, and academia - in driving innovation and growth.
From fostering talent to building cross-industry partnerships, this conversation will shed light on the strategies shaping the future of space exploration and commercialisation.
Thank you for joining us for this series of In-Orbit – we’ll be taking a short break, but we'll be back soon with a brand new series.
Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
In this episode of Outer-Orbit, we talk with Pat Mathewson, Head of Business Strategy and Analysis at Astroscale to explore space economics and examine the growing role that space plays in global markets.
Outer-Orbit is our bonus series where we share short episodes that continue the conversation from our main episodes, focusing in on a particular topic or point of view.
