Space science and technology was on the political agenda following the Parliamentary Friends of Science breakfast held in Canberra on Tuesday 14 February.

Presented by Science & Technology Australia in partnership with the Australian Academy of Science, the event was hosted by the Parliamentary Friends of Science group, co-convened by the Hon Richard Marles MP and the Hon Karen Andrews MP.

Experts in space science and technology shared their work and unique perspectives on the sector in an effort to highlight Australia’s current contributions, and where the possibilities lie for space science in Australia moving forward. Panellists included Director of UNSW Canberra Space, Professor Russell Boyce; UNSW Canberra Rector, Professor Michael Frater; CEO of space start-up Myriota, Alex Grant; co-founder of Cuberider, Solange Cunin; and International Space Station Flight Operations Engineer with the European Space Agency, Andrea Boyd.

The panel was chaired by Professor Joan Leach, Director of the Centre for the Public Awareness for Science.

The event at Parliament House was followed by a public forum at Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre. More than 100 members of the public joined in on the lively discussion on Australia’s future in space science, the benefits of a space agency, and the potential economic and scientific benefits of investing more in the sector.

The Australian Academy of Science and STA is grateful to all those who attended both events, and to the inspiring panellists for sharing their insights with Australian decision makers at all levels.

Story courtesy of Science and Technology Australia via the Academy of Science.