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Agenda

Main Stage - Blue Stage

8:00am - 9:00am

Registration and exhibition open

9:00am - 9:05am

Welcome remarks from the Master of Ceremonies

Professor Alan Duffy
Professor Alan Duffy
Pro Vice-Chancellor
Flagship Initiatives
9:05am - 9:10am

Principal partner welcome remarks

9:10am - 9:25am

Opening address from the Australian Space Agency

Enrico Palermo
Enrico Palermo
Head of Australian Space Agency
Australian Space Agency
9:25am - 9:35am

The role of Defence in growing Australia's space capabilities and industry

Major General Gregory Novak, AM
Major General Gregory Novak, AM
Commander
Defence Space Command, Australian Defence Forces
9:35am - 9:45am

Indo-Pacific space domain operations and capabilities in the face of great power competition

Brigadier General Anthony J. "Chachi" Mastalir
Brigadier General Anthony J. "Chachi" Mastalir
Commander
United States Space Forces Indo-Pacific
9:45am - 10:15am

Collaboration key to enhancing the US-Australian partnership for securing the Indo-Pacific

Join Major General Gregory Novak, Commander of Defence Space Command, Australian Defence Forces and Brigadier General Anthony J. “Chachi” Mastalir, Commander, United States Space Forces Indo-Pacific United States Space Forces as they discuss how the respective space forces of Australia and the United States can further develop and engage in collaboratory operations in the Indo-Pacific region.

Brigadier General Anthony J. "Chachi" Mastalir
Brigadier General Anthony J. "Chachi" Mastalir
Commander
United States Space Forces Indo-Pacific
Major General Gregory Novak, AM
Major General Gregory Novak, AM
Commander
Defence Space Command, Australian Defence Forces
10:15am - 10:45am

Morning tea

8:30am - 9:30am

Registration and exhibition open – breakfast/networking

9:30am - 9:35am

Day 2 welcome remarks from the Master of Ceremonies

Professor Alan Duffy
Professor Alan Duffy
Pro Vice-Chancellor
Flagship Initiatives
9:35am - 10:05am

To be annouced

10:05am - 10:35am

Launching beyond boundaries: Unpacking the competitive landscape of Australian spaceports

As Australia gears up for a promising year of rocket launches, this session dives into a critical question: How can Australian launch companies and spaceports compete with giants like SpaceX?

With numerous local options, what sets them apart and attracts businesses to choose domestic launches over international alternatives? Explore the unique selling points of Australian spaceports and launch providers, and hear their pitches on why they should be the go-to choice for the industry.

Michael Jones
Michael Jones
Executive Chairman and Group CEO
Equatorial Launch Australia
10:35am - 11:05am

Morning tea

Blue Stage

Space industry evolution

Diversity, skills, ethics, and beyond

Embark on a multifaceted exploration of the space industry’s intricate tapestry, where diversity fuels innovation, skills drive progress, youth kindle inspiration, ethics guide missions, and pressing challenges demand our attention.

Delve into the complex dimensions of regulatory frameworks, sustainable practices, technological disruptions, and cross industry collaborations.

Join us in this transformative conference track as we steer the course towards a balanced, resilient and pioneering space future.

10:45am - 11:20am


PANEL: How will the space sector find another 15,000 workers by 2030?

Australia’s space industry grew from employing around 5,000 people to 17,000 at the end of last year. But as the nation begins to rely on satellites for both defence and communications, we’re predicted to require another 15,000 workers by the end of the decade. How are we going to recruit when we’re already dealing with a tough talent shortage and a lack of interest from young people in STEM subjects? This session will discuss:

  • The skills gap, opportunities and actionable steps to bridge skill deficiencies and align workforce capabilities with industry demands.
  • Inspiring the youth of Australia – effective educational and mentor programs and initiatives that spark curiosity and encourage career paths in the field.
  • How to enhance cross-collaboration between industry, businesses, and research institutions for mutual growth.

Anntonette Dailey
Anntonette Dailey
Advisor to Industry on Government Space Relations
Jackie Carpenter
Jackie Carpenter
Managing Director
One Giant Leap Australia Foundation
Dr Joni Sytsma
Dr Joni Sytsma
Chief Technology Officer
University of Southern Queensland iLAuNCH Program
Kaylee Li
Kaylee Li
University Student Team Partnership Coordinator
LEAP Australia

11:20am - 11:55am


Panel: What’s next for collaboration between space’s middle powers?

The past 12 months have been dominated by space’s ‘middle powers’ working together, with Australia having strong ties with Italy, the UK, Japan and India. This session will focus on Australia's space-related initiatives, collaboration efforts, and the strategic significance of space among smaller nations. We’ll discuss how Australia can leverage its geographical strengths and use other country’s know-how to nullify our disadvantages.

Key takeaways:

  • Discover Australia's historic collaborations with other nations, fueling the strategic importance of space cooperation.
  • Explore joint space initiatives and learn from success stories.
  • Understand how Australia's satellite and EO capabilities are enabling effective disaster management, resource monitoring, and connectivity to the region.
  • Gain insights into strategies for advancing Australia's influence in the evolving space sector.

Anntonette Dailey
Anntonette Dailey
Advisor to Industry on Government Space Relations
Professor Anna Moore
Professor Anna Moore
Director
ANU Institute for Space - Inspace
Matt Creamer
Matt Creamer
Managing Director
SSC Space Australia - Swedish Space Corporation

11:55am - 12:10pm


Key legal tips for financing space assets

As a rapidly evolving and capital-intensive endeavour, the space industry requires significant capital investment which must adapt to fast changing regulatory and commercial models. This session explores the latest developments in the financing of space assets.

This session will gallop through the key things financiers, and those being financed, should know about:

  • The fundamentals of space law
  • Due diligence
  • Taking security
  • Documentation
  • Other key issues relevant to financing space assets

Urzula McCormack
Urzula McCormack
Partner, Cross Boarder Finance & Technology
King & Wood Mallesons
Dale Rayner
Dale Rayner
Partner, Banking & Finance
King & Wood Mallesons

12:10pm - 12:20pm


Australian sovereign manufacturing capability in thermal vacuum testing chambers

Boson Engineering is a high and ultra-high vacuum engineering manufacturer based in Sydney, Australia. With over 30 years of experience in vacuum engineering and manufacturing projects, Boson Engineering is a trusted name in the industry.

We specialise in manufacturing standard thermal vacuum systems for CubeSat and satellite payload testing. What sets the company apart is its commitment to local Australian support for sovereign space capabilities. Boson's standard design minimises lead time delays and ensures fast breakdown and maintenance turnaround times.

At Boson Engineering, the company motto is "Quality engineering and service without the complexity." This ethos drives its dedication to provide high-quality engineering solutions and exceptional customer service without unnecessary complications.

Since its founding, Boson Vacuum Engineers has been committed to excellence, and its team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals.

Dr Ava Faridi
Dr Ava Faridi
Head of Sales & Marketing
Boson Engineering

12:20pm - 1:35pm


Lunch and networking in expo

1:35pm - 2:10pm


The latest on space law and ethics

A rapidly expanding space sector now dominated by innovative commercial companies, alongside an uncertain geopolitical world, has radically changed how we think about space law. Today, we stand on the brink of space mining becoming a reality, anti-satellite missiles tests having already taken place, and reports Russia could be developing nuclear weapons in space. Closer to home, companies now need to actively consider their deorbiting options for their defunct satellites, and navigate the requirements of the upcoming US-Australia TSA agreement. This session will examine recent developments, and what you need to know to prepare for the future.

Professor Melissa de Zwart
Professor Melissa de Zwart
Professor Space Law and Governance, Andy Thomas Centre for Space Resources, Deputy Director, ARC Centre of Excellence in Plants 4 Space
University of Adelaide
Annabel Griffin
Annabel Griffin
Partner
King & Wood Mallesons
Dr Michael Mineiro
Dr Michael Mineiro
Senior Counsel
Akin

2:10pm - 2:45pm


Modernising Australia’s airspace regulations for advanced aviation technology integration

As traditional launches increase globally and the next generation of aircraft and drones enter the mix, how are we going to manage our airspace? Join us as we provide a comprehensive update regarding Australia's ongoing efforts to revamp airspace regulations. Designed to seamlessly incorporate the latest developments in aviation technology, this session will shed light on the tangible progress made so far.

Jesse Suskin
Jesse Suskin
Head of Government Relations and Public Policy
Wing (Alphabet Inc)

2:45pm - 3:20pm


Panel: Empowering diversity in STEM: Unveiling solutions from the landmark government review

Last year, a landmark federal government review into the lack of diversity in STEM suggested tough action to address the sector’s issues. The draft recommendations went as far as to suggest stripping organisations of research funding if bullying and harassment aren’t tackled. The review was based on data that suggested Australia needs to develop 1.2 million technology-related jobs by 2030, with women currently making up only 20 per cent of those with STEM qualifications. But this is one of many reviews over the years, with little progress being seen. Our panel will ask what the latest one got right and wrong and how we can move from good ideas to successfully implementing them.

Dr Joni Sytsma
Dr Joni Sytsma
Chief Technology Officer
University of Southern Queensland iLAuNCH Program
Professor Chris Lawrence
Professor Chris Lawrence
Associate Dean (Indigenous)
Faculty of Information Technology, Monash University
Mei He
Mei He
Co-Founder
Australian Space Diversity Alliance
Anntonette Dailey
Anntonette Dailey
Advisor to Industry on Government Space Relations

3:20pm - 3:25pm


Track close

Red Stage

Space sovereignty

Defence, government affairs and cross-border co-operation

Fortifying the space domain: ASEAN’s dynamic landscape, defence strategies, and global partnerships

Embark on a comprehensive exploration of the critical intersection between defence, government affairs and strategic collaborations in the realm of space. Join us in this strategic conference track as we navigate the intricate paths of security, diplomacy and innovation in the ever-evolving space landscape.

10:45am - 11:20am


Panel: Navigating AUKUS – strengthening aerospace ties between Australia, the UK and the US

Late last year, the AUKUS coalition announced new deep space radars to be built in all three countries, with the first being developed in WA. It marked the moment the AUKUS coalition moved beyond submarines to space. Join our panel discussion as we dissect the implications of the monumental AUKUS alliance on the Australian aerospace industry in the context of evolving ties with the UK and the US Defence Force. Delve into the strategic shifts and collaborative opportunities that arise from this transformative military alliance.

In this session:

  • The AUKUS alliance and its significance in reshaping global security dynamics.
  • Insights into challenges and opportunities for local growth and joint research, development, and manufacturing projects.
  • The strategic implications of AUKUS on Australia's defence capabilities and interoperability.
  • The role of technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and joint training exercises in enhancing defence cooperation.
  • How we can maintain equitable partnerships and ensuring a balanced approach to technology sharing and collaboration.

Dr Malcolm Davis
Dr Malcolm Davis
Senior Analyst in Defence Strategy and Capability
The Australian Strategic Policy Institute, Canberra
Rajat Kulshrestha
Rajat Kulshrestha
Co-founder & Chief Executive Officer
Space Machines Company

11:20am - 11:55am


Panel: The short, medium and long-term potential of hypersonic tech

Since our last summit, hypersonic technology has witnessed notable advancements. Key stories include Hypersonix's selection by the US Department of Defence for testing, obtaining a US patent for its spaceplane engine, and forging a groundbreaking deal with a Nasdaq-listed firm. In this session, hear from Hypersonix as it discusses hypersonic tech and how it is reshaping the aerospace landscape. We aim to answer industry's burning questions about its short, medium, and long-term potential and how businesses and organisations can actively engage.

In this session, you will discover:

  • An overview of the current state of hypersonic tech, including recent breakthroughs and advancements.
  • Insights into the global landscape of hypersonic research, development and commercialisation.
  • Insights to the timeline, challenges and opportunities associated with the widespread adoption of hypersonic systems.

Michael Smart
Michael Smart
Co-Founder, CTO and Head of Engineering
Hypersonix Launch Systems
Dr Sandy Tirtey
Dr Sandy Tirtey
Director of global commercial launch services & Director of Rocket Lab Australia
Rocket Lab

11:55am - 12:10pm


Advanced Navigation Spotlight

Dr Lyle Roberts
Dr Lyle Roberts
Head of Photonics
Advanced Navigation

12:10pm - 12:20pm


Drive Innovation and Modernization in Space R & D with Simulation & AI - An Altair Perspective!

The pursuit of exploring and understanding the cosmos has been a driving force for humanity, pushing the boundaries of our knowledge and capabilities. In the contemporary era, the convergence of simulation and artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in space research and development (R&D). This talk delves into the pivotal role that Altair’s simulation and AI platform plays in propelling innovation and modernization within the realm of space exploration.

Researchers can harness the power of simulation by creating virtual environments that accurately model the complexities of space missions, from spacecraft design to orbital mechanics and the battery powered drive systems. Constantly strive for the most weight optimum designs allowing space crafts to carry maximum payloads, find alternative materials with micromechanical simulations to meet the demands of varied operating conditions such as soft landings.

Furthermore, AI technologies augment the capabilities of simulation platforms by providing intelligent decision-making algorithms, predictive analytics, and autonomous systems.
The evolution of machine learning integrated into the Simulation platform enabling engineers to rapidly explore the design and optimize the systems to accelerate space programs.

Through real-world examples and case studies, this talk will showcase how simulation and AI are revolutionizing various facets of space R&D, including spacecraft design optimization, systems simulation and digital twin.

Alex Quirk
Alex Quirk
Sales Manager
ANZ - Altair

12:20pm - 1:35pm


Lunch and networking in expo

1:35pm - 2:10pm


How can we secure Australia’s military satcom capabilities?

In recent years, secure and sovereign military satcom capabilities have become essential for Australia’s national security. But how can industry and defence work together to create the systems we need in the face of constantly evolving counter-space threats from electronic warfare (jamming) to direct-ascent missiles? In this session, we will discuss what projects have been undertaken and forecasted, the speed to capability required for Australia to be effective in this domain and what can our international partners learn from our aspirations and priorities.

You will gain insights into:

  • Geo-stationary communications satellites
  • LEO satellite systems
  • Multiple ground stations across Australia
  • Opportunities for international collaboration for industry

2:10pm - 2:45pm


Panel: Space Junk and situational awareness

Space junk has gone from a niche topic to a major concern in the industry. How at risk is my satellite from being struck? Do I need a deorbiting strategy? What can I do to prevent or nullify a strike? And do countries and space agencies need to collaborate more to tackle these concerns? This panel will tackle the latest developments and how Made In Australia innovation is providing solutions. Plus, as space becomes more crowded, what’s the future of our space junk dilemma in a world of more small sat launches?

James Bennett
James Bennett
Executive Vice President
EOS Space Systems
Terry van Haren DSM
Terry van Haren DSM
President APAC and Managing Director
LeoLabs, Australia
Matt Creamer
Matt Creamer
Managing Director
SSC Space Australia - Swedish Space Corporation

2:45pm - 3:10pm


To be annouced

3:10pm - 3:20pm


Spotlight

Blue Stage

Space innovation

Transforming real-world challenges into opportunities for businesses and everyday life

Discover cutting-edge applications and technologies from space science that hold the key to solving real-world challenges for businesses and everyday Australians. Delve into the latest satellite advancements and sustainable solutions, unlocking new opportunities for growth and improved quality of life.

11:05am - 11:50am


Where next for earth observation in Australia?

Last year’s biggest space story involved the federal government scrapping the $1.2 billion National Space Mission for Earth Observation project. But with that investment gone, where should Australia go next? This panel will feature industry experts discussing how to navigate upcoming challenges and why we should be optimistic about our sector’s potential. In particular, they will talk about why our world-leading understanding of using EO to monitor climate change or bushfires could prove crucial. Finally, they’ll explain how industry leaders can better make the case for government assistance in the future as Australia continues to spend money using other nations’ data.

Professor Marta Yebra
Professor Marta Yebra
Director
Bushfire Research Centre of Excellence
Sebastian Robertson
Sebastian Robertson
CEO, Birdi & President, Earth Observation Australia
Dr Rebecca Allen
Dr Rebecca Allen
Co-Director, Space Technology and Industry Institute
Swinburne University of Technology

11:50am - 12:10pm


Is your design ready for Space? Digital Testing for full confidence before you launch

Whether you work in the design of spacecraft, satellites, cubesats, sensors, antennae or onboard electronics, there is no room for failure in the modern space industry. This presentation will provide a guide to virtual testing methodologies to thoroughly evaluate the performance and durability of space equipment and platforms across each part of their lifecycle, using your existing MCAD and ECAD data and using accurate mathematical models that account for the specific requirements and harsh environmental conditions of space.

Thomas Benke
Thomas Benke
Manager - Ansys Electronics Business
LEAP Australia

12:10pm - 12:40pm


Autonomous systems

An overview of autonomous systems and their significance in space exploration.
Insights into cutting-edge navigation technologies
Current challenges related to autonomous navigations and solutions
How autonomous systems will support ambitious voyages to become a reality

Chris Shaw
Chris Shaw
CEO and cofounder
Advanced Navigation
Professor Ryszard Kowalczyk
Professor Ryszard Kowalczyk
Professorial Chair of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
SmartSat CRC

12:40pm - 1:55pm


Lunch and networking in expo

1:55pm - 2:20pm


The new space economy

The commercial space industry is making it possible for all of humanity to access space for the benefit of Earth. In this session, join Blue Origin on an exhilarating journey through the burgeoning space economy and the second golden age of space flight.

Blue Origin’s Lynn McDonald, Vice President of Test and Flight Operations at Blue Origin, will discuss:
• Radically reducing the cost of accessing space.
• The global opportunity,
• How to inspire and mobilise future generations to pursue STEM careers.

Lynn McDonald
Lynn McDonald
Vice President, Test and Flight Operations
Blue Origin

2:20pm - 3:00pm


The outback internet revolution: How cutting-edge applications are supporting the heart of our nation

Part 1: The battle of the satellites: LEO v geostationary

Part 2: Farmer wants a Wi-Fi: Discover the latest cutting-edge applications and how they’re altering the future of Aussie agriculture

Professor Andrew Dempster
Professor Andrew Dempster
Director of ACSER
UNSW

3:00pm - 3:05pm


Track close

Red Stage

Space marketplace

Fuelling business expansion and galactic commerce

Explore the frontiers of space commerce, where innovation, investment and untapped potential converge. This track is your gateway to understanding how the space industry is not just a scientific pursuit, but also a thriving marketplace.

As we chart this course, we aim to illuminate pathways for business expansion, inviting you to envision a future where the stars themselves hold the promise of economic growth and boundless commerce.

11:05am - 11:40am


How to break into the space industry

The space industry offers boundless opportunities, but breaking into this dynamic sector and securing contracts can be daunting.

In this practical session, we’ll provide actionable insights and strategies for newcomers to successfully enter the space industry, navigate the tender process, and emerge as contract winners.

You will learn about real-world case studies examples of organisations that successfully entered the space industry and secured contracts.

Key takeaways:

  • The common challenges and barriers faced by space sector newcomers.
  • Regulatory hurdles, technological barriers and market competition.
  • Strategies for winning space industry contracts, from initial negotiations to final execution.

Kiriti Rambhatla
Kiriti Rambhatla
CEO
Metakosmos
Paul Hepplewhite
Paul Hepplewhite
Associate Director of Space
Investment NSW

11:40am - 12:10pm


Commercialising space: How can the space industry become relevant to the Australian economy and its consumers?

Governments around the world are the main investors in space activities through procurement and grants to public agencies, research institutes, universities and the private sector. In five years, the global landscape for space activities has evolved with new countries investing in space R&D and getting involved in global value chains.

International collaborations and partnerships are instrumental to Australia’s space advancement.

But what happens when funding is cut again? How does this impact the Australian economy and its consumers?

This session will dive into what will happen to the Australian economy and residents with a lack of funding, including:
• The expansion strategy to include support for a growing number of space businesses in Australia and why it changed.
• Tracking the impact of climate change and the impact of losing funding, which can result in increased bushfires and floods and a lack of monitoring biodiversity and deforestation.
• Geoscience Australia and the ASA collaborating with the United States to develop satellite systems that will improve the quality of satellite EO data.
• Australian start-up Lunaria One: the project where multiple industry bodies are working with the Australian National University, Queensland University of Technology, RMIT University, and Ben Gurion University in Israel on a study on how to help plants grow and survive on the lunar surface while developing sustainable solutions on Earth.

Michael Jones
Michael Jones
Executive Chairman and Group CEO
Equatorial Launch Australia
Jeremy Hallett
Jeremy Hallett
SIAA Executive Chairman
Space Industry Association of Australia Limited

12:10pm - 12:25pm


The Space Marketplace – The tools may be up there but the applications are down here

Dr Paul Scully-Power
Dr Paul Scully-Power
AM DSM
Australia’s First Astronaut

12:25pm - 12:40pm


To be annouced

12:40pm - 1:55pm


Lunch and networking in expo

1:55pm - 2:20pm


How we can inspire the next generation of Aussie kids into space

Discover how we can nurture curiosity, foster dreams, and empower the next generation to launch themselves beyond the stars.
The Young Astronauts Club in Far North Queensland is igniting aspirations of space exploration in young minds. Join us to discover how the club is pioneering an online space education experience through engaging activities and a supportive environment that fosters a sense of belonging. We will unravel the roadmap to inspire, educate, and propel the next generation of Aussie kids towards the boundless frontiers of space while learning how to equip young minds with knowledge about space, becoming an astronaut, and skills for success.

Jen Malone
Jen Malone
Founder
Young Astronauts Club

2:20pm - 2:50pm


Space medicine: Exploring health challenges and innovations beyond our planet

Space exploration presents unique challenges to human health and well-being, making space medicine a crucial field. In this session, we will dive into the world of space medicine, examining the health challenges faced by astronauts, innovative solutions, and the broader implications for healthcare on Earth.

Stephanie Wan
Stephanie Wan
Associate Director, Space Industry
KPMG Australia
Dr Sara Webb
Dr Sara Webb
Research Fellow and Mission Leader
Swinburne Youth Space Innovation Challenge

2:50pm - 2:55pm


Track close

Main Stage - Blue Stage

3:25pm - 3:55pm

New challenges of suborbital flight, boosting research in microgravity through suborbital flight and recent experiments, flight opportunity, and updates of the frontier of the space research

Sirisha Bandla
Sirisha Bandla
VP of Government Affairs & Research Operations
Virgin Galactic
Prof. Fabrizio Quadrini
Prof. Fabrizio Quadrini
Full professor in Manufacturing Technology, Coordinator of the Bachelor in Engineering Sciences University of Rome Tor Vergata Department of Industrial Engineering
Loredana Santo
Loredana Santo
Professor of Manufacturing Processes, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy, Head of the Department of Industrial Engineering, Head of the Space Sustainability Center
Col. Walter Villadei
Col. Walter Villadei
Head of the Italian Air Force Representative in the US for the activities of Access to Space within the Commercial Spaceflight Axiom Space, Inc.
3:55pm - 4:00pm

Closing Remarks MC

Professor Alan Duffy
Professor Alan Duffy
Pro Vice-Chancellor
Flagship Initiatives
4:00pm - 5:00pm

Post Event Networking

3:05pm - 3:35pm

To be announced

3:35pm - 3:40pm

MC Close

Professor Alan Duffy
Professor Alan Duffy
Pro Vice-Chancellor
Flagship Initiatives


If you're interested in speaking at the event, please contact Demii via email.


*Agenda subject to change