This year's guest speaker is astronaut Tim Peake.
Tim is a champion for science, innovation, and exploration - the first British ESA astronaut to visit the International Space Station, where his 2015 Principia mission captivated millions and inspired a generation. Since retiring from ESA's active astronaut corps in 2023, he has focused on his role as an ESA ambassador, advocating for the UK space sector's innovation and economic potential while continuing his work as a STEM ambassador.
Tim's journey to space began with a distinguished military career as an Apache test pilot and Major in the British Army Air Corps, flying over 2,000 hours including combat operations. During his six-month Principia mission, he conducted over 250 scientific experiments, completed a spacewalk to repair the station's power supply, and engaged more than 2 million schoolchildren across Europe in hands-on space projects, including running the London Marathon from the ISS treadmill and sharing an unforgettable conversation with Professor Stephen Hawking about the future of humanity.
Today, Tim draws on his unique experiences as a test pilot and astronaut to inspire audiences with insights on leadership, collaboration, risk management, and mission success. He works closely with the UK Space Agency and ESA to champion the space economy's vast opportunities, from orbit manufacturing to active debris removal missions launching in 2026, and helping audiences understand how courage, preparation, and innovation drive progress both on Earth and beyond.