Exploring the Synergies Between Space Technology and Healthcare Innovation: Highlights from the “Space Technology Enabling the Healthcare of Tomorrow”

The conversation centred on the convergence of ‘One Health,’ an approach recognising the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. To comprehensively understand and manage One Health, relying solely on patient-level data is insufficient. Instead, a diverse range of data types is required. Earth Observation data emerges as a valuable resource in this context, offering interoperable data for actionable insights, descriptive and predictive information, low-latency data (near real-time) and qualitative data suitable for regulatory purposes. Moreover, by embracing global partnerships, this approach facilitates informed decision-making, early detection of health threats and innovative solutions for disease prevention and treatment.
Moreover, the panel stressed the significance of funding for space-enabled healthcare solutions, emphasising that space technology plays a crucial role across all healthcare stages (from prevention to early warning, diagnosis, and treatment). It highlighted the critical need for research and development in health tech, with institutions like ESA and innovation hubs such as imec.istart offering resources to empower companies to integrate space assets into their products at any development stage. Companies like Achilles Design play a pivotal role in concretising these ideas by guiding innovators through the entire product development journey, from conception to market introduction, leveraging their expertise in merging diverse design and engineering disciplines to produce tangible solutions.