Space is captivating to people of all ages. As the last frontier, there is so much more to discover and explore. The rapidly expanding field of space science and technology is full of innovation and new discoveries.
With the launch of Ireland’s first ever satellite EIRSAT-1, and the establishment of the Irish Space Association, this is an exciting time to join this sector. Globally, the space sector is forecast to grow to $1.3T by 2030, with an increasing demand for skills in science, maths, engineering and commerce.
You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to work in this thriving industry. You may dream of becoming an Astronaut or Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineer or studying the secrets of the universe as an Astronomer/Astrophysicist. There are a vast range of interesting and diverse careers in research, space medicine, space robotics, spacecraft engineering, space policy and law to name but a few. You may enjoy working with a space tech start up or helping to commercialise space and develop space tourism.
The European Space Agency, of which Ireland is a member, and NASA collaborate on many spectacular missions. EnVision is set to launch in the early 2030’s to study the history, climate and activity of Venus. It may surprise you to learn that there are over one hundred Irish companies in the space industry and research community in Ireland. AI and space, the future of drones and flying close to the sun are just some of the exciting areas of research.
The thousands of satellites orbiting the earth provide us with Internet access, TV signals, GPS and invaluable scientific data. As well as forecasting weather events, satellites are used to measure the effects of climate change in crops. This helps to plan for one of the most pressing global issues, ensuring food security for all.
If you are inquisitive, enjoy problem solving and are interested in maths, physics, chemistry, computing and engineering there are many challenging and fulfilling roles in this dynamic sector. Check out videos of people from Ireland working in space related careers here.
