For thousands of years the sky has been critical to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, informing cultural practices and way of life.

Now, as space technology is advancing and can provide many opportunities for life on Earth, the Australian Space Agency has partnered with the Top End Aboriginal Bush Broadcasting Association (TEABBA) to explore ways to connect Indigenous communities with the space sector.

Today, we launched a new weekly radio series to mark the beginning of this collaboration. Over the next 10 weeks, the series will promote Australia’s role in space, and invites questions, comments and feedback.

Australia is very fortunate in being able to potentially benefit from the wisdom of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures. If we can go forward authentically, respectfully, and ethically we may be afforded access to thousands of years of traditional knowledge and science, passed down through generations of oral history traditions. 

This partnership is a small step towards transforming our ways to mutually exchange, value, and celebrate Indigenous culture and science that builds a legacy for all Australians.

~ Sharon Clark, member of the Australian Space Agency's First Nations Engagement team 

Empowering First Nations communities through culture and science 

A logo

TEABBA is a First Nations-led and controlled not-for-profit organisation that supports 29 remote Indigenous broadcasting operations. Established in 1989, they are only one of seven entities that form a Remote Indigenous Media Organisations group.  

A key purpose of its Culture and Science Exchange partnership with the Agency is also to raise space literacy levels in remote communities as well as to inspire First Nations people, communities, and businesses on the opportunities available to work in the Australian space sector. 

Last year, Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg was part of a series of visits across the Northern Territory to inspire the next generation, where she met young space enthusiasts in schools, local libraries, and auditoriums.  

One of the best parts of my job is meeting young Australians and exciting them about the wonders of space and STEM. Getting to do that in remote places where access to those opportunities is rare is even more special.  

~ Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg 

Putting the spotlight on our uniquely Australian approach to space 

The topics for each of the 10 episodes are: 

  • Space 101
  • Why space matters
  • Space has the answers
  • Australia in space
  • Interview with Katherine
  • Careers in space
  • First Nations' people in space
  • First Nations' perspectives in space
  • Challenges in the sector
  • The future of space

The story of the Australian Space Agency's logo

Indigenous Australians are our first scientists and astronomers, and their knowledge and contributions to Australian science are reflected through the Australian Space Agency’s brand logo. 

Katherine Bennell-Pegg with school kids in Northern Territory

Questions or feedback?

Please contact us if you would like further information about the collaboration or would like to share your comments.

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Our department recognises the First Peoples of this Nation and their ongoing cultural and spiritual connections to the lands, waters, seas, skies, and communities.

We Acknowledge First Nations Peoples as the Traditional Custodians and Lore Keepers of the oldest living culture and pay respects to their Elders past and present. We extend that respect to all First Nations Peoples.