Space projects ‘give Australia the right stuff’

The head of Australia’s space agency says missions such as launching NASA rockets and building a moon rover are critical.

The rockets will go about 250km into the sky to collect data on the physics of the sun and its relationship with earth.

The head of Australia’s space agency says missions such as launching NASA rockets and building a moon rover are critical for the nation to be part of a great “inflection point in history” for space exploration.

Anthony Albanese on Wednesday announced the launching of three NASA rockets from the Arnhem Space Centre – the first time the US space agency would use Australia as a launching point since the mid-1990s.

The Prime Minister said the mission was not just about the rocket launches but “sending a message” to Australians.

“We want the next generation to really look at STEM as part of Australia’s future and that’s why this is an important project,” he said, referring to the study of science, technology, engineering and maths.

“I look forward to the success of this project. The idea NASA is directly involved in Australia should be something of pride for all Australians.”

The rockets will go about 250km into the sky to collect data on the physics of the sun and its relationship with earth.

It follows the then-Coalition government announcing in October last year Australia would build a 20gk rover to head to the moon in a joint mission with NASA.

Head of the Australian Space Agency Enrico Palermo said such missions would help “reverse the brain drain” in Australia of highly qualified individuals who have been leaving for careers overseas.

“I personally left Australia in 2005 to pursue a career in the space industry; at the time there were limited opportunities,” he said. “Fast forward to 2022 and it’s not only plausible but realistic to have a fulsome career here. Much of the talent that has moved overseas to work in the space industry, as the government invests more and programs are impressive and inspirational, we’ll see some of that talent come back.”

Mr Palermo said it was vital investment in space exploration continued, despite challenging economic circumstances: “We are at an inflection point where the pace of development in the space sector is accelerating – there’s definitely a chance for Australia to capitalise on this.”