The new facility, which is expected to be completed in the first half of 2021, is designed to inspire the next generation of workers in the space industry by fostering STEM education.

Once launched, the facility, located in Lot Fourteen, Adelaide, will:

• showcase an exhibition area, which includes an interactive exhibition dedicated to activities that can support exploration of the moon and Mars;
• facilitate networking opportunities between businesses, start-ups and researchers through workshops, discussions and displays;
• showcase a careers and information hub; and
• showcase a Mission Control Centre, which includes facilities for space businesses and researchers to control satellite and space missions.

According to head of the Australian Space Agency Dr Megan Clark, AC, programs and activities in the Australian Space Discovery Centre will draw from the following seven National Civil Space Priorities in the federal government’s Australian Civil Space Strategy:

• Position, navigation and timing;
• Earth observation;
• Communications technologies and services;
• Space situational awareness and debris monitoring;
• Leapfrog R&D;
• Robotics and automation on earth and in space; and
• Access to space.

“We would love the Australian Space Discovery Centre to become a place where the community can come together to explore the latest innovations in space technologies and learn about Australia’s role in expanding national and international space activities,” Dr Clark said.

The Australian Space Discovery Centre is being delivered in partnership between the Australian Space Agency and Questacon. 

[Related: Saber Astronautics to develop Australian Space Agency Mission Control Centre]

Charbel Kadib

News Editor – Defence and Cyber, Momentum Media

Prior to joining the defence and aerospace team in 2020, Charbel was news editor of The Adviser and Mortgage Business, where he covered developments in the banking and financial services sector for three years. Charbel has a keen interest in geopolitics and international relations, graduating from the University of Notre Dame with a double major in politics and journalism. Charbel has also completed internships with The Australian Department of Communications and the Arts and public relations agency Fifty Acres.

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