The Australian Space Agency marked its third birthday last week (1 July) by reflecting on its three-year progress and recognising the contributions of its “amazing, passionate team”.
Head of the Australian Space Agency, Enrico Palermo said the establishment of the Agency in 2018 catalysed effort and energy around the nation towards the opportunity space provided, and accelerated recognition that space touched virtually every aspect of people’s lives.
“Integral to our success and achievements at the Agency to date is our people, who we affectionately call ‘Space Agents’,” Mr Palermo said.
“Our Agents are motivated every day by our audacious purpose to grow a globally respected and responsible thriving space sector in Australia that lifts the broader economy, and inspires and improves the lives of all Australians,” he said.
“I am incredibly proud and fortunate to serve our team of talented and dedicated Agents who consistently go above and beyond to deliver on our purpose, while upholding the Agency’s values and Charter.”
Mr Palermo said the Agency had provided over $17 million in grants over the past year to stimulate the space sector.
He said the Agency was also developing international cooperation through its International Space Investment initiative and accelerating the growth of the industry through its flagship space program, the Moon to Mars initiative.
“In October 2020, the Agency was a founding nation to sign the Artemis Accords, along with the United States of America, Canada, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom,” he said.
“The signing helps Australia advance space as a partner with NASA and international counterparts on the Artemis mission as we go forward to the Moon and beyond to Mars.”
Mr Palermo said the Agency also worked to inspire the Australian community and the next generation of the space workforce through the opening of the Australian Space Discovery Centre in Adelaide, South Australia which featured stories of opportunity, curiosity and technology.
