Libby Jackson OBE is Head of Space at the Science Museum. Libby is responsible for the strategic direction of the Science Museum’s space activities, plays a key role in the museum’s space-related public engagement activities in acquiring new space technologies for the national collection. Jackson was previously the UK Space Agency’s Head of Space Exploration, responsible for delivering the UK’s activities in both human and robotic missions that explore Low Earth Orbit, Moon and Mars. Jackson is one of Britain’s leading experts in human spaceflight, having spent nearly two decades working at the forefront of the field in mission control and management roles, including overseeing the hugely successful education programme for Tim Peake’s mission to the International Space Station.
Jackson has had a life-long interest in space exploration. After graduating with a BSc in Physics from Imperial College and a Master’s degree in Astronautics and Space Engineering from Cranfield University, Jackson worked for Airbus Defence and Space in satellite operations. Prior to her time at the UK Space Agency, Jackson worked in Mission Control as a flight controller and then Flight Director for the Columbus module, Europe’s laboratory on the ISS. Jackson was awarded an OBE in the 2023 New Year’s Honours list for her services to the Space Sector, and an Honorary Doctorate of Science from the University of Kent in 2021.