Background
Space sustainability has become an urgent issue as satellites and space debris increasingly pose risks to our planet’s orbit. Global communications company Viasat recognised the need for fresh solutions. But space sustainability is not just a technical issue, it also a human one. Everyone has a stake in protecting space and a diverse, skilled talent pipeline is crucial to unlocking the vast economic and social potential it offers. But how do you inspire the next generation to tackle such a complex problem?
The Viasat Beyond: Space Competition aims to do just that. By inviting students to contribute fresh, innovative solutions it empowers them to shape the future of safe and sustainable space. The competition isn’t just about finding technical fixes; it’s about nurturing a new wave of thinkers, policymakers, designers and engineers who represent the full spectrum of society.
The programme’s outreach extended to more than 1,100 students, challenging them to propose new ideas for managing space resources responsibly.
Approach
Viasat structured the competition to ensure inclusivity and accessibility. The company partnered with Springpod to reach students in years 12-13 from all backgrounds, offering resources to ensure equitable opportunity and ensuring that no barriers hindered participation. Over the course of several months students engaged in interactive modules, webinars and tasks that deepened their understanding of space sustainability.
“Through Viasat Beyond: Space, 90% of students reported increased awareness of space careers and 79% gained confidence in their job prospects”
In a three-phased competition, students first submitted initial ideas on space sustainability. The top 30 teams were selected to further develop their solutions, focusing on policy, design and technical strategies. The five finalist teams were invited to Viasat’s international headquarters, where they presented their ideas to industry experts. These teams received mentorship from Viasat employees, helping them hone their proposals and gain valuable communication skills.
Outcome
The programme exceeded its goals, impacting over 2,700 schools across the UK. It successfully promoted diversity, with 56% of participants identifying as female and 21% coming from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The competition raised awareness of careers in space, with 90% of students reporting a greater understanding of the industry, 79% feeling confident in their future career prospects and 76% considered pursuing a career in this sector.
Viasat’s initiative also facilitated valuable networking opportunities, connecting students with industry leaders from organisations such as the UK Space Agency and the Ministry of Defence. The winning project was a ‘housekeeping’ satellite proposal from 16-year-old Ash Goldsmith, designed to repair and upgrade existing satellites.