BUSINESSES will have the chance to boldly go where few have been before when a highly anticipated space conference returns to County Durham next year.
On March 21, Spacetech 2013 will bring the weird and wonderful world of space technology to the North East Technology Park (NETPark) in Sedgefield.
The conference, which is being chaired by UKspace, will feature high profile speakers, including representatives from the European Space Agency, Telespazio VEGA and the UK Satellite Applications Catapult Centre.
It follows on from a sell-out conference in June, when experts outlined potential contract opportunities for what is planned to be the biggest eye in the sky - the European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT).
Stewart Watkins, managing director of Business Durham, which operates NETPark on behalf of Durham County Council, said: “This is an opportunity for companies to reach for business opportunities in the stars and beyond.
“Delegates will hear first-hand from respected industry and academic space experts about the many opportunities for new products and services.
“It is aimed at companies interested in exploring these new challenges and those who are already involved in the space sector but would like to learn more.”
Paul Flanagan, secretary general of UKspace, said: “UKspace is delighted to be participating in Spacetech 2013 and we will be promoting space as a high growth and high technology sector for the UK economy.
“We will be building on the chancellor’s recent statement where he committed to UK support in this sector.”
To register for the event visit northeasttechnologypark.com/netpark-news-and-events/upcoming-events/

Pic caption: European Space Agency’s Ariane lifting-off from  French Guiana –( credit  amskad / Shutterstock.com)