Exploring the Future of Space Research: Australian and New Zealand Agencies to Jointly Fund Four Projects

Australia and New Zealand are set to embark on an exciting collaborative journey in space research, with both countries committing to jointly fund at least four ground-breaking projects under the Australia-New Zealand Collaborative Space Program. This initiative, announced at the Australian Space Forum conference in Adelaide on July 24, marks a significant milestone in advancing trans-Tasman space collaboration.

The partnership, forged between Australia’s Cooperative Research Centre (SmartSat CRC) and the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), is geared towards establishing enduring partnerships between Australian and New Zealand researchers. The aim is to create platforms for larger-scale future research collaborations, develop joint expertise, support research and development aligned with industry needs, and nurture talent in the field.

One of the key objectives of this collaboration is to address major environmental, economic, and social challenges through scientific cooperation. Leveraging the unique geographical advantages of the Southern Hemisphere location, clear skies, and varied topography of both countries, the research will explore innovative solutions to global issues.

The initial four projects encompass a diverse range of research areas. These projects include monitoring methane emissions, enhancing real-time monitoring of greenhouse gases, managing free space optical communication nodes across Australia and New Zealand, improving the tracking of space objects, and developing a joint AUS-NZ concept for maritime domain awareness.

CEO of SmartSat CRC, Professor Andy Koronios, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the shared vision of driving innovation and developing capabilities that will benefit both countries and contribute to global advancements in space technology. The Chief Research Officer of SmartSat CRC, Dr. Carl Seubert, highlighted the importance of international research collaboration in tackling significant issues through innovative space research and development.

In addition to the initial projects, funding opportunities have been opened for further research activities under the program. SmartSat CRC and MBIE are inviting proposals for collaborative six-month feasibility studies, offering up to $100,000 for research activities in each country. These studies are aimed at harnessing complementary resources and expertise to develop innovative research and development projects in the area of Earth observation, further driving the growth of the space industry in Australia and New Zealand.

This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of both countries to advancing space technology, fostering innovation, and addressing global challenges. By pooling their resources and expertise, Australia and New Zealand are paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries in the realm of space research, with far-reaching implications for environmental conservation, economic development, and societal progress.

The success of these joint endeavors will not only benefit the respective countries but will also contribute to the collective advancement of space technology on a global scale. As Australia and New Zealand embark on this collaborative journey, the stage is set for pioneering discoveries and transformative innovations that will shape the future of space research.

This joint investment in space research projects symbolizes a shared commitment to unlocking the mysteries of the universe and leveraging the possibilities of space technology to create a brighter and more sustainable future for all.

Original article: https://psnews.com.au/australian-and-new-zealand-agencies-to-jointly-fund-four-space-research-projects/139776/