Consortium members:

• The University of Sydney (NSW)
• The Powerhouse Museum (NSW)
• Cisco Systems Australia Pty Ltd

Project contact:

Dr Carol Oliver
Email: carol.oliver@unsw.edu.au


This fact sheet is avaliable to download [PDF 103KB]

This project featuring collaboration between universities and business is helping to address skills shortages in Australia’s space industry. The project brings together expertise from the University of New South Wales (Australian Centre for Astrobiology, Schools of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, and Physics), in conjunction with the University of Sydney (Australian Centre for Field Robotics), Cisco Systems Australia and the Powerhouse Museum to deliver an interactive educational program aimed at Year 10-12 students.

Hosted at the Powerhouse Museum, the hands-on program allows students to plan space exploration projects using a living laboratory to simulate realistic scenarios and gain an understanding of space engineering challenges. Participants also engage in the robotics research being carried out by the University of Sydney at the Powerhouse museum. The interactive nature of the program, which includes the ability for students to interact with scientists and engineers via TelePresence, is aimed at encouraging students to consider a career in space-related science and engineering – an area that is often overlooked by students considering their future study options.

The Marsyard is installed at the Powerhouse Museum and the education program has commenced with schools from all over the country keen to participate in the “Mission to Mars” experience. For more information, please visit the Australian Centre for Astrobiology website.