RAL Space at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) is part of the Science and Technology Facilities Council.
RAL Space work alongside the UK Space Agency (UKSA) who co-ordinate UK civil space activities. RAL Space has around 200 staff who are dedicated to supporting the programmes of the Council and those of the other research councils; as well as undertaking a large number of contracts for agencies, industry and other commercial customers.
RAL Space provide research and technology development, space test facilities, instrument and mission design, and studies of science and technology requirements for new missions.