The importance of testing and software quality in distributed space systems.
Speaker
Beth Probert
Agenda
1:00pm - Welcome and Introduction
1:05pm - Talk "Quality Assurance in the New Space Age" by Beth Probert
1:35pm - Questions and Answers
1:55pm - Close
Synopsis
The space industry is undergoing a massive transformation. We are moving away from launching single, isolated spacecraft and toward deploying massive, highly interactive satellite constellations that provide complex next-generation space services. With this evolution, the stakes for software quality, resilience, and sustainability have never been higher.
Drawing on her industry experience as a Software Test Lead, Beth Probert explores how robust industry testing principles are becoming the backbone of aerospace engineering. This session will look at the realities of testing complex space systems, from the intricacies of running large-scale Low Earth Orbit (LEO) simulations to the crucial role of open-source software in space research.
Attendees will gain insight into:
- The shift from traditional spacecraft to complex, interactive next-generation satellite systems.
- The unique Quality Assurance and testing challenges of simulating and validating large-scale space systems before launch.
- Why adopting industry-standard software testing and open-source best practices is essential for the future sustainability of the space environment.
About the speaker
Beth Probert is a PhD researcher in the Applied Space Technology Laboratory at the University of Strathclyde. Combining a background in astrophysics and software engineering, her research focuses on improving the sustainability and security of the space environment. Before beginning her PhD, Beth gained five years of industry experience as a Software Test Lead at Capgemini Engineering and a DevOps Specialist at ROSEN.
Today, she applies these robust industry software and testing methodologies to her research in space and satellite engineering.
Having previously served on the BCS SiGiST committee from 2022 to 2025, Beth is speaking with the group today to highlight how foundational software testing principles from industry are critical for developing and securing next-generation space-based services.
Beth's engineering expertise and her ongoing commitment to making STEM fields more inclusive have been previously recognised by the IET's Young Woman Engineer of the Year Awards, Computer Weekly Magazine, and the FDM Everywoman in Technology Awards.
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This event is brought to you by: Software Testing specialist group
