The funding commitment will take effect if the Australian government agrees to back the mission, which would see Bennell-Pegg become the first astronaut to fly under the Australian flag after training with the Australian Space Agency.
Under the proposal, Nova Systems will provide a mix of direct funding and in-kind support, including access to aircraft for microgravity experiment development and specialist engineering expertise covering systems integration, launch safety and complex mission operations.
The mission would provide Australian researchers and industry with direct access to the microgravity environment aboard the orbiting laboratory, enabling new experiments and technology development in fields ranging from advanced manufacturing to medicine.
Nova Systems chief executive Dean Rosenfield said the pledge reflects the strategic importance of developing sovereign capability in the space sector.
“Human spaceflight programs give nations access to advanced research, technology development and operational expertise that supports priorities in defence, national security and critical infrastructure,” Rosenfield said.
Bennell-Pegg, who was named Australian of the Year, is the first astronaut to undergo training as part of Australia’s national astronaut program and her potential mission is widely seen as a landmark moment for the country’s emerging space industry.
Nova Systems has been deeply involved in building Australia’s space ecosystem, including contributions to the creation of the Australian Space Agency and the SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre.
Company co-founder and former fighter and test pilot Jim Whalley said the broader economic benefits of securing an Australian astronaut mission would significantly outweigh the cost.
“The return for Australian industry – from advanced manufacturing to defence, mining, pharmaceuticals and agriculture– would be substantial,” Whalley said.
He added that the mission would also help inspire the next generation of Australian engineers and scientists to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The proposal has received strong backing from across the global space community, including support from former astronaut Andy Thomas and former NASA deputy administrator Pamela Melroy.
If approved, the mission would represent Australia’s first government-backed astronaut flight to the International Space Station, signalling a major step forward for the nation’s ambitions in the rapidly expanding global space economy.