Under the telescope

The 2020s will see the use of increasingly complex technology on Earth and in space to ramp up our understanding of the Universe.

Australia needs a northern launch platform

Australia is well placed to launch payloads into space from its far north, given its proximity to the equator, and a northern launch centre could help boost the nation’s space and technology industry.

We’re on the cusp of discovering alien life

The ancient question ‘Are we alone?’ has graduated from being a philosophical musing to a testable hypothesis. We should be prepared for an answer.

Will “Space 2.0” lead to conflict in orbit?

The use of cube-sats and other low cost options in orbit could see a range of nation states expand their military options in orbit.

The future archaeology of space exploration

In a conversation recorded for a new series of podcasts, Alice Gorman discusses the past and future of space exploration, and how it might be regarded by those still living on Earth.

Wandering moons may shape distant solar systems

Australian and South American researchers suggest that wandering “ploonets” are unseen actors in distant solar systems.  These moons, once ejected from orbits around gas giant exoplanets, could explain several astronomical mysteries.

Space 2060

Australia must make sure that its interests are protected as the major powers establish some kind of rules-based order for a new era in human space activity.

Realising the promise of Space 3.0

The new Australian Space Agency and the growth of our commercial space sector gives us a golden opportunity to play our part in Space 3.0 and open up the “high frontier” for the next great leap for humankind.

Getting into space with Artemis

Australia is set to play a crucial role in NASA’s planned return to the moon in 2024, however despite the excitement surrounding the new ‘space race’, there is no certainty that the mission will go ahead.

Space can solve our resource shortages

Australia’s space industry could help replenish the dwindling stocks of precious resources on Earth, but space companies also need to learn some key lessons about sustainability.

Australia’s moonshot

In another sign that the government is serious about supporting new Australian endeavours in space, the Australian Space Agency and NASA will cooperate on the ‘Artemis’ project to return astronauts to the moon in 2024.

Aussie satellite tech set to cover the seas

UNSW Sydney engineers are developing new satellite technology that can be used to determine the state of the planet’s seas as well as a number of other useful applications.