In a significant development for the Australian space industry, the nation has approved a bilateral agreement with the United States, paving the way for SpaceX to use Australia as a rocket launch pad. The deal, estimated to be worth $1 billion over the next decade, allows US space launches and recovery missions in Australia while protecting American technology.
Starship’s second test launch. Image credit: SpaceX.
The Australian Space Agency confirmed that the agreement has come into effect, enabling up to 100 spacecraft launches in Australia over the next 10 years. This move is expected to bring a significant boost to the Australian economy and create highly skilled technical jobs.
According to reports, SpaceX has been in talks with Australian officials about recovering rockets off the nation's western or northern coasts. The company intends to expand its rocket-testing program, launching rockets from Texas to deliver satellites to space and then retrieving them from Australian waters. In a recent successful test, SpaceX landed the upper portion of its Starship rocket in the Indian Ocean.
While SpaceX has not commented on the developments, an Australian Space Agency spokesman confirmed that organizations have started talks about potential rocket launches following the US-Australian agreement. "The Australian Space Agency is currently engaging with domestic and international companies looking to explore opportunities," he said.
The Technology Safeguards Agreement between the two countries, signed in November last year, aims to protect US technology launched in Australia and ensure it remains under US control. After scrutiny and public consultation, the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties recommended its approval in July, citing potential benefits to the Australian space sector and opportunities for Australian companies.
The global space sector is expected to grow significantly, from $US464 billion in 2022 to $US1.1 trillion in 2040. With this agreement, Australia is poised to play a crucial role in this growth, supporting SpaceX and other space companies in their missions.
Add comment
Comments