Space, Spirits And Shared Trade Marks

When first considering the question of how Intellectual Property (IP) can support the new age of space access, the mind immediately jumps to the technical aspects involved, and how these may be protected by patents. But amongst the UK’s cohort of rocket scientists there is also a wealth of creativity. And with creativity comes a need to expand our IP horizons to explore how ‘non-technical’ creations might be protected.

The penchant for creativity and artistry amongst the space industry really shouldn’t be a surprise, given the general love for mission patches, flight tags, stickers and all manner of other merchandise celebrating the work being done. As the space industry becomes increasingly commercialised, the graphics decorating these products are increasingly acting as brand indicators.