University of Bradford Cantor Technology Lecture, Wednesday 21 October 2026, 6-7.15pm

 Coming up at Bradford University:

Please join us at the next Cantor Technology Lecture, Space 2050: Opportunity, Sustainability and the Future of Life Beyond Earth. This is an in-person and online event. Our keynote speaker is Paul Febvre, Professor of Space Systems Engineering, and Director of the Space Systems Centre at Cranfield University. In this lecture, Paul will explore what is happening in space: what mega constellations are, how they are built, what services they deliver today and what they might be able to deliver in the future. Through the reduction in launch costs enabled by reusable launch vehicles such as SpaceX and New Glenn, we will have the ability to deliver huge amounts of infrastructure into space. This growth could lead to increased congestion in orbit, making it essential that we take the necessary steps to ensure space operations remain sustainable. Paul will also look ahead to the possibilities that could redefine life on Earth and beyond: Will our ability to launch large amounts of infrastructure mean that we will be able to build gigantic structures in space, and what could this possibly mean for society?  Could we really see the advent of very large data centres in space, thereby saving our planetary resources while making AI available to everyone?    How will we ensure everyone shares in the benefits? Will space be a burden on our earth resources, or is it possible that space could enhance sustainability down here on Earth? Join us for an engaging discussion on the opportunities and responsibilities that will define life beyond Earth in the decades ahead. Date: Wednesday 21 October Time: 18:00 to 19:15 BST Location: Small Hall, University of Bradford This is an in-person and online event. Book now About Professor Paul Febvre Paul Febvre is Professor of Space Systems Engineering and Director of the Space Systems Centre at Cranfield University. With more than 40 years of experience in satellite communications and positioning technologies, he has helped develop and deliver some of the systems that underpin modern space-based services. Before joining Cranfield, Paul was Chief Technology Officer at the Satellite Applications Catapult, where he led innovation programmes exploring new applications of space technology. His work included pioneering projects in satellite communications, positioning and timing services, advanced antenna technologies, 5G, Future Flight and space-based energy, as well as the development of testing facilities to support the next generation of products and services. Earlier in his career, Paul spent 19 years at Inmarsat, where he played a leading role in the design and deployment of satellite communication systems used around the world, and 12 years at BT's research laboratories. Throughout his career, he has been at the forefront of turning innovative ideas into practical technologies that have transformed the way people connect and communicate. About the Cantor Technology Lectures The Cantor Technology Lectures is a platform for distinguished academics and industry leaders to discuss emerging technologies, groundbreaking innovations and the opportunities and challenges they present for the future. We hope you will be able to join us. Alumni Team Careers start here. Ideas grow here. Talent thrives here. It starts in Bradford. Alumni Team University of Bradford  Richmond Road, Bradford, BD7 1DP, UK alumni@bradford.ac.uk www.bradford.ac.uk/alumni The University of Bradford is a charity exempt from registration in England and Wales, our HMRC reference number is XN6997. Copyright © 2026 University of Bradford All rights reserved.

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