The next generation of space and STEM superstars were on display this week at the Kids in Space national final.

The winning school from each state and territory gathered at the Australian Space Discovery Centre in Adelaide to showcase their space-inspired design solutions.

Our Lady Queen of Peace School from South Australia took out the national prize, with a solution to address space debris. Students designed The Chomper, which recycles, refurbishes and re-uses space debris, using high-tech cameras, strong teeth, storage compartments and solar panels.

Lauderdale Primary School from Tasmania took out the industry award for their all-terrain Mars Rover.

Photo of national winners receiving their award

National prize winners, Our Lady Queen of Peace School from South Australia, receive award from Head of the Australian Space Agency, Enrico Palermo.

“It was heartwarming to speak to the students and to see their enthusiasm for how space can help solve some of our biggest challenges.

A Future Made in Australia can only be realised with a skilled and diverse technical workforce, and programs like Kids in Space are central to achieving that goal.”

- Enrico Palermo, Head of Australian Space Agency

 

The Kids in Space program is supported by the Australian Space Agency and Andy Thomas Space Foundation and delivered by education provider Maker’s Empire.

In 2024 it has reached more than 14,000 primary and middle school students from around 115 schools across every state and territory.

It also provided professional development to hundreds of school teachers and supplied every participating school with a 3D printer.

49% of schools involved are located in regional, rural and remote areas, and 44% of schools have a value below 1000 on the Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage (ICSEA).

The inaugural program in 2023 reached more than 65 schools and close to 10,000 students.

Lauderdale Primary School students in blue shirts pose either side of the table displaying their rover design presentation.

Industry award winners Lauderdale Primary School, from Tasmania.

Students Group Australian Space Discovery Centre

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