Why there's a big rocket in Bradford's Centenary Square

The UK Space Agency’s 'Space for Everyone' STEAM tour can be found in Centenary Square until July 10.

It comes as the University of Bradford counts down to launching its first ever miniature satellite into low earth orbit in 2024.

The university’s Bradford Renduchintala Centre for Space AI showcased a prototype of the ‘pocket cube’ satellite.

The awe-inspiring sight has sparked conversations about careers in the space industry - beyond being an astronaut.

The university’s Bradford Renduchintala Centre for Space AI showcased a prototype of the ‘pocket cube’ satellite (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

Visitors can enjoy activities themed around science and technology, including a ‘make-your-own' cardboard satellite pack. 

Meanwhile, there's a chance to discover how technology is being used by the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) with British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and Amaze Lab.

Professor Ifiok Otung, who works at the university’s space AI centre, said: “Space is actually exciting. Young people shouldn’t let their maths phobia put them off looking at a career in space. We take people from different backgrounds and we brush them up so I want other people to know the only limit to space is imagination. The possibilities of space are limitless. Who knows where that dream will take them?”

The university’s Bradford Renduchintala Centre for Space AI showcased a prototype of the ‘pocket cube’ satellite (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

The UK space industry employs 49,000 people across the country while the Government is investing £600 million per year in the sector. 

And there’s a lot happening in the region - including Space Hub Yorkshire’s exploration of ‘radio frequency mini clusters’ in Shipley and Saltaire.

Yusuf Bashir, who attends Eden Boys' Leadership Academy, said: “It’s interesting. I’ve seen a lot of different space-related careers I didn’t know about before. I’ve seen a lot of things about how space and satellites can do good for the world like the WWF, it’s helping save endangered walruses. 

“It makes me feel more optimistic for the future of Bradford and young people in Bradford. They have all these opportunities.”

Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Gerry Barker shared an inspiring message to the city’s young generation.

Cllr Barker said: “It’s a great privilege to have them here, it’s wonderful to know there’s a space project within Yorkshire offering opportunities to young people of this great city. 

“There’s a lot of potential and Bradford has to grow. It’s the future, that’s what everyone should grasp, particularly younger people.

“People never know what their potential until they attempt to fulfil it. The space industry offers them great potential for the future, to grow not only within themselves but the industry.”