The Open University is world renowned for planetary exploration, electronic imaging, lunar science and astronomy. The recently formed astrobiology group is leading in planetary protection, governance and is working internationally with developing countries. The university has an excellent track record in the translation of space research into terrestrial applications, is growing its expertise in microgravity, and is driving new initiatives in Earth and Environmental Sciences. The university also is a partner in the successful SPRINT programme involving five leading universities to support SMEs to commercially exploit technologies, data and expertise developed for space. Our key research themes are listed below. Click on the images to discover more!