The Australian Space Agency has awarded grants to five local space projects, helping them build their capabilities to deliver products and services into domestic and international space industry supply chains that could support Moon to Mars activities.
Announced on February 3, 2025, by the Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic, the projects will share AUD3.6 million in grants. The recipients include:
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entX (AUD1 million): The South Australian-based company will develop a radioisotope heater unit that will protect payloads to withstand the extreme low temperatures of the Moon, significantly extending the lifetime of these technologies.
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Fleet Space Technologies (AUD994,956): This space company is based in South Australia, and it will develop a cutting-edge gravity measurement instrument that will improve exploration for critical minerals.
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Advanced Navigation (AUD856,077): The NSW-based company will develop a space grade navigation system for launch and space service providers. This will ensure the navigation trajectory of rockets is maintained correctly and safely..
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Space Services Australia (AUD856,077): The ACT-based company is set to enhance its digital platforms that allow companies to virtually test satellite models based on specific space events. This will improve the ability to respond, protect and extend the duration of their technologies.
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Element Robotics (AUD257,479): The Victoria-based company aims to expand its technology, which simulates missions and operations on the surface of the Moon.
“These projects demonstrate the ingenuity that Australia has to offer our international partners in space,” said Enrico Palermo, Head of the Australian Space Agency. “Through this investment we are helping Australian companies gain crucial space heritage and grow strong customer bases, which will generate more opportunities for Australia to collaborate on the global stage.”
“Our space industry continues to go from strength to strength on the back of our world-leading know-how and advanced manufacturing prowess,” said Husic. “These investments will help further embed us in the global space supply chain, working on the global Moon to Mars mission.”
