Australian astronaut Bennell-Pegg in running for ESA space mission
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 03:20 · Archive
Katherine Bennell-Pegg could become the first Australian to wear an Australian flag on their space suit in space.
Katherine Bennell-Pegg could become the first person sent into space to directly represent Australia if an $8m government bid succeeds. Ms Bennell-Pegg, an Australian engineer, qualified astronaut and Australian of the Year, currently directs the Australian Space Agency. With the funding, she would attend training at the ESA's astronaut training centre in Germany and ultimately travel to space.
Science Minister Tim Ayres has written to the European Space Agency to endorse Ms Bennell-Pegg's bid, calling it a potential culmination of Australia's ambition to see an Australian astronaut wear an Australian flag on their space suit. The government has worked with the private sector, philanthropists and state governments to raise funds. Philanthropists have committed over $6m in cash plus in-kind support, with some indicative support from state governments.
The invitation is for a future mission to the International Space Station. Mr Ayres said the government had made an offer to the ESA that manages budget pressures.
How it is being reported
- Aussie astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg in running to join European space missionThe federal government has made a major announcement in the push for an Australian astronaut to join an upcoming European Space Agency mission.The West Australian · 23 Oct, 02:54
- Aussie astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg in running to join European space missionThe federal government has made a major announcement in the push for an Australian astronaut to join an upcoming European Space Agency mission.Perth Now · 23 Oct, 02:53
In this story: Katherine Bennell-Pegg · Australian Space Agency · European Space Agency · Tim Ayres · Australia · International Space Station · Germany
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