In April 2026, the first woman and person of colour flew around the moon in the Artemis II mission. But women and people of colour remain under-represented in the global space sector. Space is the site of billions of investment from governments, institutions and private companies, and this is set to accelerate in future years. Yet despite this significance to global economics and society, few have sought to examine the gendered dynamics of the space sector. As the world is being tipped upside down by the ‘broligarchy’ of space entrepreneurs and anti-diversity, equity and inclusion warriors, this book examines what it is like to work in the space sector particularly for those historically underrepresented. Drawing on a world-first research study of gender and diversity in space, it explores the experiences of over 400 pioneering women, men, trans and non-binary people, from astronauts to robotics engineers, ethicists to Space Agents. Sharing insights from interviews, surveys and focus groups, it gives entirely new insight into the extent of (in)equality and women in STEM. While space exploration is often referred to as the ‘final frontier’, an embodiment of a colonial, patriarchal sphere, today marks humanity’s best opportunity to ensure we do not engrain social inequalities in space. Other endeavours into land and air, including mining or polar exploration, also struggle with equity and inclusion, but the impact when it comes to space may be far more significant it will shape not just what kinds of endeavours humanity undertakes, but who benefits and who is left behind. Fascinating, timely and urgent, this book shows us how we could do better and why it matters. ‘Both meticulously researched and deeply practical, and driven by a passion for change, Space XX is a powerful contribution in the ongoing fight for gender equality and women in leadership.’ Julia Gillard
