Scotland’s Next Legal Frontier? Outer Space!

Scotland’s heading to space. And law’s going with it! 🚀

Between Shetland’s SaxaVord spaceport (now fully licensed) and launch plans in North Uist, Scotland is becoming Europe’s go-to for small satellite launches.

It’s exciting stuff – but what does it mean for lawyers?

Quite a lot.

From licensing and liability to environmental law, insurance, contracts, IP and export controls, the legal side of the space industry is growing just as fast as the tech. And with UK legislation still catching up, there’s real opportunity for lawyers who want to help shape the rules.

Scotland’s space sector already supports over 8,500 jobs – and that’s set to grow. If you’re a grad or early-career lawyer looking for something beyond the usual firm routes, this is a genuinely interesting space (sorry, bad pun) to keep an eye on.

It’s not just launch pads and rockets. It’s regulation, risk, and real-world legal challenges – and they’re landing right on Scotland’s doorstep.

👇 So, have you looked up yet?