A rocket carrying the Sky Muster II satellite launches at the Guiana Space Centre in South America.  Image supplied by AAP Image/National Broadband Network.

A new resolution introduced into the United States House of Representatives commends Australia’s establishment of a national space agency and calls for deeper cooperation on space-related initiatives.

The resolution, titled ‘Affirming United States-Australia cooperation on space research, exploration, and utilization’, was introduced on September 6 and notes:

‘Commends the Australian Government in constituting the Australian Space Agency.’

‘recognizes the value in United States-Australia cooperation on space research, exploration, and utilization, including on terrestrial research, commercial activities, and human and robotic space exploration’.

‘Supports deeper cooperation with our Australian allies in contributing each country’s unique strengths and resources to mutual prosperity and security.’

Karen Andrews, federal minister for Industry, Science and Technology, welcomed the resolution and said that the space agency will help drive the growth of our space industry, creating new business and employment opportunities.

“The resolution introduced to the US House of Representatives recognises the long history and partnership Australia and the United States share in space,” she said.
“It recognises both this history and the value of ongoing cooperation between our two countries.”

Minister Andrews told Parliament the Australian Space Agency will help the space sector to create 20,000 new jobs, noting particularly new technology to support our farmers, logistics, transport and mining companies.

“Excitingly, the Australian Space Agency will inspire our young people – not just to dream of becoming an astronaut – but to appreciate the importance of studying STEM and understanding the opportunities it can lead to,” she said.

“In addition to creating the Space Agency, in the 2018-19 Budget we invested $260 million to grow our world-leading satellite infrastructure. This investment will both help Australian businesses create new technologies – creating export and job opportunities – and benefit other Australian companies and industries.”

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