The UK Space Agency’s Head of Space Exploration, Libby Jackson, received an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in the honours, which recognise the achievements and service of extraordinary people across the UK.
Libby, who joined the UK Space Agency in 2014, was honoured for her services to the space sector, having worked to raise the profile of women in space and help encourage young people to consider studying and working in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said:
From working with Libby, I know how dedicated she is to sharing her passion for human spaceflight, particularly with the next generation. She is an inspiration who strives to champion the sector and ensure young people are aware of the wide variety of jobs available in space.
After graduating with a BSc in physics from Imperial College and a master’s degree in astronautics and space engineering from Cranfield University, Libby worked for Airbus Defence and Space in satellite operations. Libby then worked in Mission Control as a flight controller and then Flight Director for the Columbus module, Europe’s laboratory on the International Space Station.
Today Libby is one of Britain’s leading experts in human spaceflight and previously managed the hugely successful education programme for Tim Peake’s mission to the International Space Station. Over two million students took part in the outreach programme, with one in three UK schools participating.
Libby is a regular spokesperson for the UK Space Agency, championing STEM, sharing stories of human spaceflight and encouraging young people to follow their passions in life. She regularly volunteers at events, such as Swindon’s Festival of Tomorrow and Bluedot Festival, providing interactive talks and activities to inspire the public.
Her first book, A Galaxy of Her Own: Amazing Stories of Women in Space, was published in 2017, with the aim of encouraging young girls into STEM, and her second, Space Explorers: 25 Extraordinary Stories of Space Exploration and Adventure, was published in 2020.
Libby said:
It’s a wonderful honour to be recognised for my work in this way, particularly by my peers across the UK Space Agency and government. Nothing happens in isolation and it’s only because I have worked with such an outstanding and talented set of people through the years that this has happened. I would like to thank them and pay tribute to their work.
I have got here by doing what I enjoy, and I would always encourage young people to follow their passion. I hope this shines a light on the space sector and the amazing opportunities available to people.