Did you know that Russia once sent two tortoises into space during the height of the Cold War? Cute flying reptiles aren’t the only surprises from our history with space travel, as Dr Alice Bunn knows well. In her work as International Director at the UK Space Agency, Alice has witnessed astounding displays of diplomacy that counteract the isolationist approach of many governments on earth. From international space agencies pooling resources to help trapped civilians during the 2011 Tsunami in Japan to the ‘rules of the road’ that prevent extra-terrestrial pile-ups, Alice explains how space dissolves geopolitical boundaries, to the benefit of all involved. Dr Alice Bunn is the International Director at the UK Space Agency responsible for the UK’s international partnerships in space, both large and small; ensuring the security and resilience of our valuable space programmes; and harnessing the inspirational effect of space for skills and education. Alice is vice chair of the Council of the European Space Agency; sits on the Board of Directors at the US Space Foundation; is a member of the Imperial Space Lab Strategic Advisory Board and the Imperial Space Lab Strategic Advisory Board. She is also co-chair of the World Economic Forum Future Global Council on Space technology and a fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
