Australian astronaut receives Honorary Doctorate

From developing new technologies to advancing our understanding of the universe, space exploration has always been a catalyst for innovation in STEM. 

Add an Australian astronaut to that equation, and it emphatically inspires the next generation and a nation.

On Thursday, our astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg was recognised for her contributions to the field of space in Australia with an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ).

“When I was a child, like many others with the astronaut dream, I never dared hope that I could do it representing my country because we didn't have an Australian Space Agency, let alone an astronaut program.  

It’s an incredible honour to be recognised in this way by UniSQ as someone who’s made a contribution to the field of space in Australia,” shared Dr Katherine Bennell-Pegg.

She believes it's an exciting time to be an astronaut because of what's happening in space globally, but particularly all the activities happening here at home.

"UniSQ is doing such great things in space, from the work at the Mt Kent Observatory, to what the team’s doing with the UniSQ-led iLAuNCH Trailblazer, and some really amazing research coming out of the Space and Defence research flagship,” added Katherine, who was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Engineering by the University.  

UniSQ and iLAuNCH Space Program Director Associate Professor Matt Richardson said recent advancements in space exploration, a renewed focus on STEM education, and people like Katherine advocating for the sector meant the dreams of “the Space Generation” were certainly within reach.

“It used to be the case that Australian kids could dream of going to space and it might have seemed a bit far-fetched, but that’s simply not the case anymore,” said Associate Professor Richardson.

Benefits STEMming from space

Since graduating as an astronaut, Katherine has been across the length and breadth of the country — sharing insights with school students and passionate industry leaders.

Over the past two months, she has travelled to six states and territories.  

“So many of the people I’ve spoken to are drawn to space and STEM more broadly because they want to help; they are worried about climate change, natural disasters, quality of life, and conflicts around the world,” she said.

“A career in STEM allows you to be part of the solution. You don’t have to despair about the problem if you apply yourself in STEM.

To spark space related curiosity and imagination, Katherine recently took centre stage at special events held at the Queensland Museum Kurilpa and Queensland Museum Cobb+Co. 

“Katherine is a trailblazer. We hope her visit ignites a spark in the next generation of scientists. She is a shining example that with passion and perseverance, not even the sky is the limit – reach for the stars and beyond," reflected Queensland Museum Managing Director Renai Grace.  

Earlier this week, Katherine also visited Sydney to share her career journey and tips for our future STEM workforce. At an event organised by Optus and NSW Department of Education, she spoke to over 4,000 children from 114 schools.

“It’s been humbling to realise the impact my astronaut graduation is having far beyond just myself, far beyond even the space sector. Helping to unlock opportunities for our researchers and inspiring the next generation is an amazing privilege,” Katherine shared.