In an era where the cosmos is not just a frontier but a burgeoning domain of commerce and innovation, the UK finds itself at a crossroads. The nation’s storied history in space exploration is juxtaposed against a contemporary landscape where the demand for specialized skills in areas like software, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and machine learning outpaces the supply, Does the UK have a Space Skills shortage? Part 1. The challenge is twofold: bridging the current skills gap and fostering a sustainable pipeline of talent that can support the UK’s aspirations to reclaim its status as a leading space-faring nation. Universities are responding, rolling out space-specific programs aimed at equipping the next generation with the tools to not only participate in but drive the future of space exploration and industry.