Two Haileybury pupils presenting CubeSat designs

Haileybury, a co-educational independent boarding and day schools in Hertford Heath, Hertfordshire, has launched a space programme in partnership with British multinational aerospace company, BAE Systems.

The programme aims to launch a mini satellite, known as CubeSat, into space. The pupils have chosen to install an optical camera inside, which will gather essential data from high above Earth on the impacts of global warming, including deforestation and wildfires. The intention is for this information to contribute to the worldwide efforts to protect the planet from climate change.

There are more than 30 Haileybury pupils aged 12 to 18 involved in the project, which the school says is enhancing their knowledge and application of subjects such as engineering, physics and project management. Pupils have established a management structure with committees focused on areas like finance, technical support, and communications to help ensure the programme’s success.

BAE Systems Digital Intelligence division is advising pupils. The organisation’s specialists will deliver insightful lectures at the school once a month and teach pupils about the technical aspects of the mission, from how to power their CubeSat using solar energy, to providing guidance on satellite computing.

So far, Haileybury pupils have created a 3D model, developed plans for the main build, and presented it to industry experts including representatives from the UK Space Agency. They are now working with BAE to bring their vision to life and secure a rocket to launch their CubeSat.

Eugene du Toit, master of Haileybury, said: “At Haileybury, we are committed to providing our pupils with extraordinary opportunities such as this space mission. This project is an example of how our pupils work with our dedicated team of staff to achieve remarkable outcomes. Whenever possible, we want our pupils to enrich their learning through research that has real-world impact and connects them with experts in the field. We want our pupils’ learning to inspire them and support them in developing skills which will see them thriving in their future careers.

“We look forward to seeing the CubeSat programme developing as we work with BAE Systems and the UK Space Agency during the year ahead.”

Markos Trichas, head of secure space at BAE Systems, commented: “The space sector is on a steep upwards trajectory. But in order for the UK to remain at the forefront of space innovation, we must start engaging with the generations that will shape the future of our industry as early as possible to build a pipeline of future talent. We’re proud to be supporting the next generation of space experts at Haileybury College helping to develop the right skills and encouraging them to shoot for the stars.”