Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, Member of Parliament for Solihull West & Shirley, has visited the University of Birmingham to meet researchers from the SERENE (Space Environment & Radio Engineering) group, a team at the forefront of work to protect the UK’s vital technology and infrastructure from the risks posed by space weather.
Based in the University’s School of Engineering, SERENE scientists focus on understanding how space weather can affect everything from satellites and GPS to radio communications and the electricity grid here on Earth. Their work provides crucial insights that help industry and government organisations plan ahead and keep daily life running smoothly, even during solar events that can disrupt technical systems.
During his tour, Dr Shastri-Hurst saw how SERENE’s experts develop advanced models to predict space weather and track its effects in the upper atmosphere. These models are already in use across more than 30 countries, ensuring that satellites and navigation systems stay reliable, even when conditions in space are challenging. The group is also working to improve the understanding of how radio waves travel through the upper atmosphere with a wide range of applications including aircraft communications.
Dr Shastri-Hurst learnt about SERENE’s use of state-of-the-art facilities and satellites, including the LOFAR radio telescope, active satellite constellations and the worldwide GPS network. He also heard about SERENE’s operational upper atmosphere model, AENeAS, which is now helping the UK Met Office forecast satellite orbits more precisely, predict precise positioning and navigation errors and help enable more efficient HF communications. This work is vital for preventing collisions in space and ensuring that critical services like weather forecasting and navigation remain uninterrupted. This gives organisations better, more accurate advice – something that benefits both business and public services alike
SERENE’s research also extends to understanding rare but potentially severe solar storms. Whilst these events do not happen often, they could have a major impact if we are not prepared, so the team’s work helps the UK plan ahead and minimise these risks.
Reflecting on his visit, Dr Shastri-Hurst said:
“The work happening at Birmingham is not just about blue-sky science – it has a real impact on daily life, from keeping planes flying safely to ensuring our electricity stays on. The expertise and innovation from the SERENE team make sure the UK is prepared for whatever space throws at us.
It’s inspiring to see local researchers playing such a big part in protecting jobs, businesses, and national security. The West Midlands truly is leading the way.”
Commenting on the meeting, Professor Sean Elvidge, Head of SERENE, said:
“A severe space weather event could have far-reaching consequences for UK society and critical infrastructure. Whilst such events are rare, with an estimated 10% chance per decade, their potential impact is so significant that preparedness is not optional, but essential.
The UK has taken meaningful steps toward national resilience, yet considerable work remains. Strengthening collaboration with policymakers and industry leaders will be vital. We were delighted to welcome Dr Shastri-Hurst to campus to discuss shared opportunities in shaping the future of space weather policy and innovation.”
Dr Shastri-Hurst’s visit highlights his commitment to strengthening Britain’s resilience through science and engineering, ensuring that the country is equipped to deal with new and emerging challenges. The SERENE group’s research not only supports the UK but is also making an international impact, safeguarding the technology and infrastructure we all rely on every day.
For more information about SERENE’s research and its benefits for the UK and beyond, visit serene.bham.ac.uk.
