The start of a new space age

Australians can take pride in their contribution to the first space age in the second half of the 20th century, but effort is needed if we are to optimise our position in this new era.

Houston, we have a problem

Just like we have on Earth, humans have left an absolute mess in space and nobody wants to clean it up.

Australia and New Zealand should coordinate space launch capabilities

Despite all the hype around Australia’s potential in commercial space activity, it is New Zealand which leads the way.

Bringing reusable rockets to Australia

The development of re-useable rockets brings the promise of rapid, low-cost access to space a step closer, and increases the attractiveness of Australia as a potential launch site for both civilian and military purposes.

Space startup Quasar takes off with CSIRO tech

Australian space startup Quasar Satellite Technologies is set to revolutionise space communication, allowing ground stations to talk to hundreds of satellites at once using technology developed by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency.

UNSW startup to launch camera into space

HEO Robotics is teaming up with Space Machines Company to launch an on-orbit inspection camera into space.

Radar satellites can warn of bushfires and floods

New research led by Curtin University has revealed how radar satellites can improve the ability to detect, monitor, prepare for and withstand natural disasters in Australia including bushfires, floods and earthquakes.

Fleet launches fifth nanosatellite

Fleet Space Technologies has launched its fifth nanosatellite, Centauri 3 from New Zealand’s Launch Complex 1 at Mahia Peninsula aboard a Rocket Lab Electron launch vehicle.

Fleet aims high to boost satellite production

South Australian nanosatellite company Fleet Space Technologies has applied for a $5 Million Federal government Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI) grant so that it can jump from building three hand-built nanosatellites a year to mass-producing 50. 

Life on Mars

Robotic mining that can provide water and fuel is the key to developing a colony on the red planet within the next 30 years.

Successful engine test brings Australian space launch capability a step closer

An Australian research consortium has successfully tested a next generation propulsion system that could enable high-speed flight and space launch services. The team’s rotating detonation engine, or RDE, is a major technical achievement and an Australian first.

QUT researchers celebrate Mars touchdown

QUT researchers are now ready to play their part in NASA’s search for signs of ancient life of Mars with the successful touchdown of the Mars Perseverance Rover.