Australia-US' shared journey to the cosmos has a deep (space) connection. 

On Thursday evening, the Australian Space Discovery Centre held a unique event highlighting the connection, and capabilities, needed to explore the universe. 

Last night’s event, “An Evening with NASA", featured Kevin Coggins, the new Head of Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN), who shared his insights about the field of Space Communications. The sold-out event was hosted by the Andy Thomas Space Foundation and saw space enthusiasts of all ages attend in person and virtually.

Mr Coggins discussed NASA’s Artemis program and provided an overview of the communications technologies that will support the mission's activities. He underscored the importance of Australia in the future of space exploration and the key role of the Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex (CDSCC) in keeping engineers and scientists connected to distant spacecrafts like NASA's Voyager missions.

During his presentation, Mr. Coggins also reflected on Australia’s growing space sector capabilities that will support Artemis' robotic and crewed exploration. He even pointed out how impressed he was by the passion of the Australian space industry through his various engagements he had while in the country. 

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Members of the NASA delegation, including Kevin Coggins, along with colleagues from the Agency including Agency Head, Enrico Palermo, and representatives from the Andy Thomas Space Foundation at the Australian Space Discovery Centre in Adelaide. 

 

Australia's long-standing partnership with the US 

Earlier this month, the Agency hosted NASA's Science Mission Directorate delegation led by their Deputy Associate Administrator, Sandra Connelly. Their trip focused on field research in South Australia's Nilpena Ediacara National Park and the Pilbara region in Western Australia.  

Their research will not only inform future NASA robotic and human missions, but also highlight Australia's important contribution of lunar and Mars analogues to international science.

The August delegation visits come just weeks after space partnership was part of the agenda at the recent Australia-U.S. Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN).

In July, a Technology Safeguards Agreement officially came into effect which will allow US space technology like rockets and satellites to be launched from Australia.

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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.