Nova Systems has given a $1 million commitment to support national efforts to send Australian astronaut and 2026 Australian of the Year Katherine Bennell-Pegg to the International Space Station.
If the Australian Government agrees to support the mission, Nova Systems will provide a mix of cash and in-kind support, including aircraft access for microgravity experiment development as well as specialist expertise in systems engineering, launch safety and complex mission integration.
Dr Bennell-Pegg is the first astronaut to train under the Australian flag and her potential mission to the International Space Station would represent a historic moment for Australia’s growing space sector.
Nova Systems CEO Dean Rosenfield said the commitment reflects the national importance of investing in Australia’s national capability and Nova’s long history of supporting Australia’s space sector, including contributions to the establishment of the Australian Space Agency, the SmartSat CRC and national STEM initiatives.
“Human spaceflight programs provide direct access to advanced research, technology development, and operational expertise across areas central to Australia’s priorities in Defence, national security, and critical infrastructure,” Rosenfield stated.
Through its aviation assets and engineering expertise, Nova Systems will support the development and validation of Australian microgravity experiments designed for the unique conditions of space.
“Katherine represents the very best of Australian engineering talent. Supporting her mission helps ensure Australian researchers and industry can contribute to the next generation of space technologies,” Rosenfield highlighted.
Resounding support for this mission has also come from Australian space and research institutions, former astronaut Andy Thomas, and Deputy head of NASA and US Astronaut Hall of Fame inductee Pamela Melroy.
“The economic benefit to Australia and Australian industry far outweighs the cost of securing this mission for Katherine, while also inspiring young Australians to pursue careers in STEM. This commitment reflects how strongly we believe in that return," Former Fighter Pilot, Test Pilot and co- founder of Nova Systems Jim Whalley, said.
“This mission is critical to ensure Australia can leverage space-related international capability and commercial opportunities in space and related sectors such as advanced manufacturing, defence, mining, pharmaceuticals and agriculture.”