A key component in the UK's ambition to become a powerhouse in the space industry is to have indigenous launch capabilities. How well is progress going? Space business in Britain appears to be booming. According to the UK Space Agency's 2020-21 corporate plan, the sector currently makes “a substantial contribution to UK prosperity” by generating an income of £14.8bn, employing 42,000 people and supporting a further £300bn of economic activity through the use of satellite services.