Humanity space
About us
What exists beyond the confines of our planet has always had religious, cultural and even civilisational importance. Today we stand at a critical juncture in the human relationship with Space. Never before have the wellbeing and prosperity of so many people across so many different societies depended on so many platforms and spacecraft orbiting and travelling beyond our planet. For all space exploration, Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences perspectives are essential.
The Leverhulme Centre for Humanity and Space (LCHS) will work to ensure that the quest for knowledge is not just a scientific endeavour but a profound human experience, enriching cultural narratives and societal values.
Our people
Our work is led by a core team with extensive experience and expertise in space discovery.
Professor Andrew Futter, Centre Director
Professor Andrew Futter is world-leading social scientist whose research examines the politics and strategy of nuclear weapons. Professor Futter is a visionary and dynamic research leader, experienced in managing large research projects, inspiring diverse teams of people, transforming inter-disciplinary academic debates, and working with non-academic partners. He will bring together and lead a multidisciplinary team of scholars and ECRs to maximise the intellectual contribution of the research and develop the next generation of Space experts.
View Professor Futter's profile
Professor Rossana Deplano, Deputy Director
Professor Rossana Deplano is Professor of International Space Law at the Leicester Law School. Her research expertise falls within the area of public international law, in particular international space law, United Nations law, general theory of international law and interdisciplinary research methods in international law. Professor Deplano is the recipient of a UKRI/AHRC Innovation Scholar Award to conduct an interdisciplinary study at the intersection of international space law and architecture. She is the Co-Director of the Centre for European Law and Internationalisation (CELI) and a member of the Institute for Space, where she serves as the co-lead for the Life in Space research theme and the convenor of the Humanising Space working group.
Our research focus
The Centre's work is focussed around four core themes.
Living and working in space
Exploring how our lives will adapt to life in space and how this dependence will reshape our existence here on Earth.
Peace, security and governance
Ensuring space is used for peaceful purposes while balancing competition and collaboration among nations.
Development, sustainability and fairness
Developing strategies for the equitable exploration of space that promote social, environmental, and economic growth.
Communication, representation and experience
Finding ways to effectively share our experiences of space to maximize education and engagement.