Despite what you may think, Australia has a long history of space activities. But this is the first time the Australian public has been asked its opinions on space.
In Australia, space defence gets billions of dollars in funding, and commercial projects get hundreds of millions. Space science gets only $2 million a year.
From solar sail-powered spacecraft, to laser communications, to asteroid detection systems, there is no shortage of Australian ideas and expertise to help NASA explore the Moon and Mars.
Amid the glamour and glitter and the mutually admiring exchanges between Donald Trump and Morrison, China and Iran were the central policy issues of interest during the PM’s Washington trip.
Nicholas Borroz, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau
India’s Moon shot isn’t just about prestige. As launch costs fall, the space economy is poised to boom. A lengthening list of nations is eyeing the sky.
Australia played a vital role in beaming the Apollo 11 Moon landing to the world. But since then we’ve passed up the opportunity to cement our place in exploring outer space.
On Earth the flame from a struck match looks like an inverted teardrop shape and is orange. In microgravity, that same flame is spherical and blue. Heat transfer is different with minimal gravity.
This are looking up when it comes to launching things into space from Australia. The rules on what can be launched are currently under review and open for comment.
We’ve launched rockets from Woomera in South Australia, but in reality Australia could support multiple launch sites. And the closer to the equator, typically the better.
ARC Laureate Fellow and Winthrop Research Professor at the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research, UWA., The University of Western Australia