Space Science and Robotics

Space science and robotics is a degree built around one of the most remarkable achievements of the modern era: the unmanned exploration of the solar system. Spacecraft, orbiters, landers, and rovers have given us our most detailed knowledge of other planets, and the engineering and science that make this possible draw on robotics, autonomous systems, signal processing, astrodynamics, and the fundamental physics of space environments. This degree prepares you to work at this frontier, combining the scientific knowledge to understand what we find in space with the engineering skills to design systems capable of going there.

At Aberystwyth University you will study across three years on a full-time programme. Aberystwyth has a strong research tradition in both planetary science and computer science, and the department has genuine expertise in the field of space robotics, contributing to real space mission development. The curriculum covers the physics and geology of planetary bodies, spacecraft design and orbital mechanics, robotics and autonomous systems, computer vision, machine learning, and the control systems needed to operate machines at interplanetary distances with significant communication delays.

You will develop practical skills in programming, system design, and data analysis alongside the theoretical knowledge that space science demands. The degree is shaped by active researchers who contribute directly to the scientific questions and engineering challenges it addresses.

Graduates of space science and robotics enter careers in the growing UK and international space sectors. Space agencies, satellite manufacturers, mission operations teams, and the defence and telecommunications industries all recruit graduates with these skills. Robotics and autonomous systems engineering roles in manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and agriculture also draw on the technical training.

The skills in programming, data analysis, and system design that the degree develops are valued across the technology sector more broadly. Postgraduate study in space science, robotics, artificial intelligence, or planetary science is a natural direction for those who wish to pursue research or specialist roles.