Profile
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Andrew Ratcliffe
Curriculum Vitae
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Education:
Cranfield University – Astronautics and Space Eng, University of Sheffield – Aerospace Engineering
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Qualifications:
MSc, MEng
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Work History:
Airbus Defence and Space
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Current Job:
Head of Launch Systems at the UK Space Agency
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About Me
Head of Launch Systems at the UK Space Agency
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At University I first studied Aerospace Engineer and then went on to do Astronautics and Space Engineering. I then worked for Airbus Defence and Space performing mission studies and technology development activities for the European Space Agency. One of the main areas I was involved in was active debris removal and designed a harpoon that is capable of capturing space debris. I now work for the UK Space Agency and lead the engineering team responsible for overseeing Launch.
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My Work
Head of Launch Systems
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In the UK we currently build satellite and operate satellites but these are currently launched from spaceports across the globe. To make it easier for these satellites to reach space the Government has set the target to enable commercial launch from the UK by the early 2020’s. I lead a team of engineers who oversee the launch activities at the UK Space Agency. My team is developing software to investigate the flight path of the launch vehicles, we are helping develop new rules to allow launch to proceed safely and we are helping companies develop their new technology.
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My Typical Day: Developing an understanding of how to launch safely from the UK
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The best thing about my job is that it is very varied and I get to meet a lot of interesting people. There are 3 main components to my role :
- Leading research into how launch can proceed safely from the UK. Designing launch vehicles. Simulating their flight path to orbit. Understanding how these vehicles may break/fail.
- Reviewing the license applications of operators who want to launch their satellites.
- Representing the UK at international meetings such as the UN COPUOS STSC
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My Interview
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How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Passionate, Inquisitive, Knowledgeable
What's the best thing you've done in your career?
Designed the first harpoon that has worked in space
What or who inspired you to follow your career?
NASA's Space Shuttle
What was your favourite subject at school?
Physics
What did you want to be after you left school?
Space Engineer
If you weren't doing this job, what would you choose instead?
Astrophysicist
Who is your favourite singer or band?
Public Service Broadcasting
What's your favourite food?
Japanese
If you had 3 wishes for yourself what would they be? - be honest!
To work on the Apollo programme
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