Australia to Offer $100 Million for 2028 Space Mission

The federal government aims to send astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg on a space flight by 2028.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Space

A metallic rocket stage climbs into a twilight sky above a vast Australian desert landscape. — The Australian federal government has proposed a $100 million investment to the European Space Agency to launch a national space mission by 2028. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should the government invest $100 million to send an Australian astronaut into space?

The Australian federal government has submitted a $100 million offer to the European Space Agency to facilitate a space mission in 2028. This initiative seeks to place Australian of the Year Katherine Bennell-Pegg on a flight as the first astronaut under the Australian flag.

Why it matters

Securing this mission would represent a major milestone for Australia in the global space sector. The investment aims to solidify the nation's participation in international space exploration programmes.

The proposed mission involves a financial commitment of $100 million from the federal government. This investment is specifically targeted at securing a 2028 flight slot for a national astronaut.

The players

Katherine Bennell-Pegg

An accomplished astronaut who currently serves as the Australian of the Year.

European Space Agency

An international intergovernmental organisation dedicated to the exploration of space.

The details

The government is negotiating with the European Space Agency to leverage international infrastructure for the upcoming flight. Should the offer be accepted, it would mark a historic moment for the nation's space programme.

The space mission is currently scheduled to take place in 2028.

The Big Picture

Australia's initiative represents a strategic effort to align with the European Space Agency's astronaut flight programme. This move signals a paradigm shift from reliance on third-party partnerships to direct involvement in international crewed space exploration.

The successful acquisition of a flight slot could accelerate domestic scientific research and innovation capabilities. Long-term impacts include potential growth in high-tech manufacturing and the expansion of national aerospace training facilities.

The takeaway

This proposal highlights the government's commitment to advancing Australia's role in the global space arena. Citizens can expect further updates on the negotiations between the federal authorities and the European Space Agency as the 2028 mission date approaches.