The Isle of Man has stunned many major European countries by being placed fifth in an assessment of the most likely nation to put the next person on the moon. The Island therefore has been ranked ahead of the UK and all other European countries in a report released by industry analyst Ascend. In fact only the United States of America, Russia, China and India are ranked ahead of the Isle of Man.

The Isle of Man space industry is to thank for this high profile assessment. There are a growing number of Manx space tourism firms with interests in manned lunar flights.

The Isle of Man's space companies have reportedly generated nearly £400 million over the last three years.

The Isle of Man Government has given space exploration companies tax incentives which have assisted in promoting the space exploration business in the Island. Government officials hope the ranking will lead to further investment in the Isle of Man's growing space industry.

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