Space Innovation

Space Innovation examines how emerging technologies, entrepreneurial ventures, and new governance arrangements are transforming the space sector. Research focuses on innovation, ecosystem development, technology governance, risk, sustainability, and inclusion, generating insights for organizations, policymakers, and society navigating the rapidly evolving space economy.

Theme lead

Nikita Chiu, https://www.durham.ac.uk/business/our-people/sze-w-chiu/

Further information: https://technologygovernance.webspace.durham.ac.uk/

Associated research (selection)

Chiu, Nikita and Markus Kornprobst (2026), "Rendezvous in space: Tech diplomacy and the commercial space era—a study of rendezvous and docking technologies and space exploration co-operation since the cold war," Global Policy, 17 (S4), S56–S67. https://doi.org/10.1111/1758-5899.70104

Chiu, Sze W. 'Nikita', P. Clinton, and S. Potter (2026), "Inclusive risk planning and assessments for astronauts' health for mars-bound missions—integrating gender informed radiation scenarios for risk evaluations," in Proceedings of the 77th International Astronautical Congress. Antalya, Türkiye.

Chiu, Nikita (2023), "Orbis non sufficit — co-operation and discord in global space and disarmament governance," The Hague Journal of Diplomacy, 18 (2-3), 351–379. https://doi.org/10.1163/1871191x-bja10164

Chiu, Sze W. Nikita (2019), "Promoting international co-operation in the age of global space governance – a study on on-orbit servicing operations," Acta Astronautica, 161, 375–381. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actaastro.2018.07.019

Policy engagement

Chiu, Nikita. (2025). Written evidence to the house of lords UK engagement with space committee (SPA0094). House of Lords, https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld5901/ldselect/ldukspace/190/190.pdf