A new partnership between the Australian Space Agency and the United States’ National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is expected to result in Australian involvement in the return to the Moon and on to Mars.
Prime Minister, Scott Morrison said $150 million would be allocated over five years for Australian businesses and researchers to join NASA’s endeavour, delivering key capabilities for the mission.
“This investment will benefit all Australians with more jobs, new technologies and more investment in businesses that will grow the economy,” Mr Morrison said.
“We’re backing Australian businesses to the Moon, and even Mars, and back.”
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, Karen Andrews said the partnership was a milestone moment for the booming Australian space industry, but would also benefit everyday Australians.
“This agreement is all about opportunity for us to take the Australian space sector to the next level, grow our economy and create new local jobs,” Mrs Andrews said.
“That’s why we established the Australian Space Agency just over 12 months ago and are investing strongly.”
She said the partnership would focus on three integrated elements that would lift Australian engagement in the global space sector.
These were demonstrator and pilot projects which showcased investment-ready Australian capabilities to NASA; working with NASA to identify how Australia could support a significant part of NASA’s Return to the Moon and on to Mars program; and supporting access to international space supply chains that supported NASA.
Head of the Australian Space Agency, Megan Clark said the announcement marked an important step for Australia and its growing space industry.
“The investment will allow our businesses and researchers to contribute Australia’s best ideas and technology to support NASA’s plan to return to the Moon and then on to Mars,” Dr Clark said.
