From Orbit Monitoring to Mission Design 

Rachel’s role spans the full lifecycle of a satellite mission, from early design stages to operations in orbit. 

“My day-to-day work can be broken down into three sections,” she explains. 

For current missions, Rachel monitors AAC Clyde Space’s CubeSats in orbit, checking telemetry data to assess satellite health, status, and performance. She plans operations, writes schedules, sends commands, retrieves payload data, and ensures that information reaches the wider team for analysis. 

For newly launched missions, she leads satellite commissioning — running on-orbit tests, deploying antennas, and preparing spacecraft to begin delivering data. 

And for future missions, Rachel supports platform design and testing, helping to ensure new satellites are fully flight-ready before launch. 

High Stakes, High Rewards 

Working in satellite operations comes with its challenges — particularly when things don’t go to plan. 

“A major part of the job is having the ability to make quick decisions on the fly, while staying calm and in control of the situation,” Rachel says. “Unlike most jobs, satellites don’t have a ‘go home’ time, so they can require 24-hour supervision.” 

But it’s that responsibility that makes the role so rewarding. 

“Seeing real improvements in the data our satellites produce is incredibly satisfying. And nothing beats that moment when first communication hits, knowing the test worked.”

A Different Way of Thinking 

Rachel was drawn to the space industry because of the unique challenges it presents. 

“No two days are the same, and space allows for a completely different type of thinking. The problems are unlike anything else.” 

Along the way, she’s learned the importance of perspective. 

“Knowing when to step back and see the bigger picture is huge — not getting lost in the details. And remembering that anything is possible if you break it down into small enough steps and work with a committed team.” 

Collaboration Without Borders 

Satellite operations at AAC Clyde Space are truly international. 

“I’m based in Glasgow, operating a satellite designed by the team in Uppsala, providing data for the team in London to analyse and deliver to customers,” Rachel explains. “Cross-site collaboration is essential for mission success.” 

It’s also what makes the team dynamic so strong. 

“Everyone sees this as more than just a job. People genuinely love what they do and want these missions to succeed. It sounds cliché, but it’s true — everyone brings unique skills and supports one another.” 

Seeing Ideas Become Reality 

One standout moment for Rachel came recently in the cleanroom. 

“Seeing our EO satellite VIREON™ being stacked was surreal. When I first joined, it was just a concept, now watching it come together piece by piece is incredible.” 

Advice for Aspiring Space Professionals 

For anyone considering a career in space, Rachel has reassuring advice. 

“The word ‘space’ can feel intimidating, and people often think they need an aerospace engineering degree but that’s not the case. It takes people from so many different backgrounds to get satellites into orbit. Often, outside perspectives are the most valuable.” 

One thing that surprised her? Just how accessible the industry is across the UK. 

“I grew up in Nottingham, and now I’ve come to love living in Scotland and Glasgow. Opportunities in space really are everywhere.” 

Life Beyond Orbit 

Outside of work, Rachel enjoys creative pursuits that contrast with the highly structured nature of satellite operations. 

“My job is very rule-driven, so in my downtime I love doing creative things — especially activities with fewer rules and consequences.” 

Looking Ahead 

Rachel is excited about what’s next for AAC Clyde Space. 

“Watching our mission capabilities grow — from 3U platforms to our 16U VIREON satellites — has been amazing. I’m excited to see the impact our platforms will continue to have, especially in Earth Observation.”

For all our career opportunities visit our Careers page.