Our Space our Future: making careers in the space industry an inspiring reality for all

The vision of Our Space Our Future (OurSpace) is a society that enables and empowers all students, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability or socio-economic background, to consider a career related to space science as a relevant, attainable and exciting aspiration for their future. The space industry in Europe is strong and growing, offering innovative services and providing huge benefits across science, the economy, government and society . The space industry meets societal challenges, provides jobs and supports industrial growth and the standards of excellence within industry and research reinforces Europe as an autonomous, global leader in the sector. The OurSpace rationale is based on emphasis of these positive effects of STEM choices, not only for employment and the economy, but also the wider benefits of STEM and space science education for technical and intellectual progress, and on the wider skills and knowledge base of the public. Each of the consortium partners brings a unique breadth of experience and skills in space communication, stakeholder engagement, policy advice and direct experience of working with schools and families. The OurSpace project will design and run sustainable education and outreach activities, and take these out into communities, ensuring that underserved audiences are embraced and integrated into the project. OurSpace will engage over 60,000 people across the programme, with a longitudinal evaluation study that explores improved scientific literacy, interest and confidence in space science themes and assesses the impact on space-related and STEM choices and career aspirations of 5,000 directly-participating students across 4 delivery countries.