Building a launchpad: How Heriot-Watt is shaping the future of space science

As space exploration and technology continue to advance at a rapid rate, Heriot-Watt University is developing a distinctive voice in this dynamic sector. This blog is the first in a three-part series exploring the future of space research at Heriot-Watt University.

Through an in-depth conversation with Heriot-Watt University’s Associate Professor Ross Donaldson, of the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, we uncover the University’s growing role in space science, quantum communications, and aerospace innovation. Across the series, we will look at key research themes, student opportunities, and global collaborations shaping Heriot-Watt’s ambitions in the space sector.

Can you please provide an overview of the space research focus at Heriot-Watt University?

“It’s broader than many people realise. When I first became interested in space around 2016, I assumed Heriot-Watt was fairly new to the field—especially without a formal space institute like some other universities. But once I began connecting with colleagues, I quickly saw the range of expertise already embedded across the institution.

To help map that landscape, I started the Space Cluster Workshop—an internal initiative designed to bring together academics working in space-related areas. At our first meeting, the focus was largely engineering and science based. My own work, for instance, involves optical and quantum satellite communications. Others were developing radio frequency and microwave systems or researching the chemical analysis of deorbiting satellites.

What’s really exciting is how that scope is expanding. At our second workshop, we had academics from building surveying, biology and even space health—looking at astronaut microbiomes and how we keep people healthy in space. It’s an incredibly interdisciplinary picture. Heriot-Watt doesn’t have a single focus—we’re building a wide-ranging and collaborative community across our campuses.”

Can you talk about the facilities and technology available for students studying Space at the university?

“We’ve introduced a new undergraduate Aerospace programme, which launched a couple of years ago. There's talk of developing a Master’s course in the near future too. Students on this pathway get access to a variety of facilities, including a flight simulator located in the Mechanical Engineering building—it’s a fantastic tool for practising and testing aircraft designs.

On the extracurricular side, we’ve seen real growth through AeroWatt, a student-led cluster that includes societies like Rocketry and CanSat. These groups give students valuable hands-on experience and a chance to collaborate on real-world space challenges.

From a research perspective, we’re continuing to invest in infrastructure. I’m currently developing an Optical Ground Station here at Heriot-Watt’s Edinburgh campus, which will be a core facility not just for primary research, but eventually for student projects as well. Other developments include radio frequency hardware and satellite tracking systems—resources that will support a growing portfolio of research and teaching in this area.”

What are some of the key projects currently being undertaken in the field of space exploration or space technology at Heriot-Watt University?

“One of the most exciting initiatives is our involvement in the UK’s Quantum Communications Hub, part of the national Quantum Technologies Programme. We’re contributing to a funded CubeSat mission due to launch in late 2025. The satellite will generate quantum states in orbit and transmit them down to our Optical Ground Station here on campus—a facility purpose-built to support this kind of advanced research.

What’s unique about the ground station is its design flexibility. It’s not tied to one mission: we’ll be able to connect with multiple satellites simultaneously. One example is QEYSSat (Quantum Encryption and Science Satellite), a Canadian mission launching in 2026, led by Honeywell and the University of Waterloo with the Canadian Space Agency. We’re hoping to play a key role in receiving data from that as well.

There’s a real buzz around quantum space technologies at the moment, and Heriot-Watt is well placed to lead on this both in the UK and internationally.”

Stay tuned for part two, where Ross will explore how Heriot-Watt collaborates with global partners and what’s on the horizon for the University’s expanding space ecosystem.

Heriot-Watt University is at the forefront of global space research, bringing together world-leading expertise in quantum technologies, photonics, satellite communications, and aerospace engineering. From foundational science to real-world applications, our researchers are shaping the future of space exploration through innovation and collaboration.

To explore research partnerships, student opportunities, or upcoming space sector events, get in touch with us via GRID@hw.ac.uk.