The second anniversary of the formation of the Australian Space Agency has been celebrated with a review of its early achievements.
Head of the Agency, Megan Clark said its foremost task had been to position Australia as a responsible global citizen in space.
“This involves building trust by doing what we said we would do; bringing a shared ambition to our partnerships; embracing an entrepreneurial spirit; and drawing strength from our diversity,” Dr Clark said.
“We have a lot to learn as we push the boundaries of our knowledge and ensure Australia is at the forefront of space developments.”
She said the Agency’s first year involved opening doors internationally and establishing national partnerships.
“Our two programs to grow capability and capacity — the International Space Investment Initiative and the Space Infrastructure Fund — were also developed,” Dr Clark said.
“Our Advancing Space: Australian Civil Space Strategy 2019-28 and values continue to guide us each step of the way during this exciting mission.”
She said the Agency had established a significant partnership with the United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
“Our $150 million Moon to Mars initiative provides opportunities for Australian businesses and researchers to showcase their knowledge and capabilities to support NASA’s ambition to go forward on the Moon and on to Mars,” Dr Clark said.
“This will help Australian businesses and our manufacturing sector to become more competitive in the international space supply chain. It will also support our goal to generate a further 20,000 jobs by 2030.”
In February, the Agency launched its headquarters in Adelaide.
“Plans are now under way to build our Australian Space Discovery Centre and Mission Control opening in 2021,” Dr Clark said.
“Our ambition for the Space Discovery Centre is to help inspire the next generation through education and experience, which will help to grow a future high-tech workforce.”
