Sue Horne, former Head of Space Exploration at the UK Space Agency, has been recognised with an OBE in the King's Birthday Honours list for her exceptional contributions to space exploration and Mars science over the past two decades.
Sue is one of the several individuals from across the space and astronomy community to be honoured this year, reflecting the wide range of talent and dedication driving the UK’s progress in space science, education and industry.
The honour acknowledges Sue's pivotal role in building, shaping and championing the UK's Mars science community, establishing the UK as a global leader in planetary exploration, with a presence on nearly every active Mars mission.
Sue, who was first awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2000 New Year Honours list for her services to space, served at the UK Space Agency until her retirement in March 2024. She led the Exploration team during a defining moment for the UK space sector, overseeing the Agency’s role in Tim Peake’s historic mission to the International Space Station.
Sue developed and delivered the strategy for the UK's space exploration efforts, including participation in the European Space Agency Exploration Programme and the ExoMars mission, resulting in British industry leading the build of the Rosalind Franklin Mars Rover.
Her work spanned support for scientific instruments developed by industry and academia, investment in future technologies, and funding for research and outreach activities.
Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, said:
“Sue's recognition in the King's Birthday Honours is thoroughly deserved and reflects her immense contribution to the UK's space exploration capabilities. Her dedication not only advanced our scientific understanding but has established the UK as a key player in international Mars research.
“What makes Sue's achievements even more remarkable is her commitment to nurturing the next generation of space scientists and her passionate advocacy for women in STEM. Her legacy extends far beyond her scientific accomplishments, creating pathways and opportunities that will benefit our space sector for years to come.”
A passionate and articulate advocate for the UK’s space sector, Sue has consistently championed national space initiatives, playing a key role in raising public awareness and support for the country's space ambitions.
Beyond her professional achievements, Sue has been a powerful advocate for women in STEM, offering support, mentorship and inspiration in a predominantly male-dominated sector. She has fought successfully to allow female researchers to work part-time during their funding periods, ensuring talented women aren't lost. Through personal mentoring, community career events, and active engagement with the scientific community, Sue has helped ensure a continued pipeline of diverse talent for the UK space sector.
Libby Jackson, formerly of the UK Space Agency and now Head of Space at the Science Museum, said:
“I had the great pleasure of working alongside Sue for more than a decade at the UK Space Agency, and I am absolutely delighted to see her receive this honour – it is so richly deserved, and a fitting tribute to a career that has had a lasting impact on the fields of space science and exploration in the UK. Her legacy isn’t just in the missions or milestones that she has been an integral part of delivering - it is in the people she has empowered and the future she’s helped shape, myself included.”
Sue’s award sits alongside several other space and astronomy honours in this year’s list:
- Professor Dame Susan Jocelyn Bell Burnell – awarded Members of the Order of the Companions of Honour for services to Astronomy and Physics and to Diversity.
- William Whitehorn – awarded an OBE for services to the Aerospace Industry.
- Dennis Ernest Ashton – awarded an MBE for services to Astronomy Education and to Charity as founder of Stardome,
- Professor Lyndsay Fletcher FRS – awarded an MBE for Solar Physics and to Diversity and Inclusion in Physics and Astronomy.
- Professor Raman Kant Prinja – awarded an MBE for services to Academia and Education.
The UK Space Agency congratulates Sue and all those honoured on this well-deserved recognition of their outstanding achievements and lasting impact.
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