posted 03-12-2026 08:28 AM               

Space debris exhibition coming to Royal Astronomical Society

A ground-breaking photographic exhibition highlighting the grave and deepening issue of space debris is coming to Burlington House courtyard, the Royal Astronomical Society is delighted to announce.

Our Fragile Space shines a spotlight on the critical importance of space sustainability and the protection of the night sky through a powerful blend of reportage and artistic photography.

Since its premiere, the free exhibition has achieved significant international acclaim, serving as a powerful policy tool at many of the world's most influential venues to raise awareness of the biggest crisis astronomy has faced in its entire existence.

It will be open to the public outside the Society's offices in Piccadilly, central London, from 19 March to 10 May 2026.

Created and led by renowned science communicator and space photographer Max Alexander, the display will exhibit the growing threat space debris poses to our environment and way of life – concerns shared by the RAS, particularly in the wake of plans by SpaceX, Reflect Orbital and China to launch a combined 1.25 million satellites into an already crowded and increasingly perilous low-Earth orbit.

RAS President Professor Mike Lockwood said: "Max Alexander's brilliant exhibition is a powerful and timely reminder of the growing threat of space junk.

"Thought-provoking and instructive in equal measure, the images add weight to an urgent question in need of a global answer – how do we tackle a problem that could have devastating consequences not just for astronomy, but for us all?"

The project provides a compelling visual narrative for the "fourth domain" of environmental concern: the near-space environment, while also championing the people and initiatives leading the way in combatting the issue.

By bringing the invisible reality of orbital hazards to the public eye, Our Fragile Space has transitioned from a traditional gallery display into a vital catalyst for global diplomatic and scientific discussion.

It has been showcased at the United Nations in both New York and Vienna, the European Parliament in Brussels, and Lloyd's of London. This global reach has allowed the exhibition to bridge the gap between complex orbital mechanics and public consciousness, advocating for the stewardship of our skies on an international stage.

Its most significant legacy is its role in shaping international space policy and its contribution to the UK Space Agency's In-Orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM) framework.

In recognition of the project's impact, the "Our Fragile Space" team – including Steve Kelly and Dr Stuart Clark – received the prestigious Sir Arthur Clarke Team Media Award.

Hosted and supported by the RAS, the exhibition continues to champion the protection of dark and quiet skies, advocating for the preservation of the night sky as a shared human heritage against unprecedented satellite expansion.

No booking is required to see the display, which is free to view for all.