History made
Katherine Bennell-Pegg is the first professional astronaut to officially represent Australia.
She graduated from the European Space Agency’s astronaut training program in April 2024. This makes Katherine eligible for missions to the International Space Station and beyond.
As part of her work at the Australian Space Agency, the space systems engineer-turned-astronaut is inspiring the next generation to pursue a career in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Now back in Australia, one of Katherine's key responsibilities is to also open more doors for the national space sector by showcasing its potential to the world as well as bringing her knowledge, connections and insights home.
Our Aussie astronaut was announced as the 2026 Australian of the Year — a recognition she received after being named 2025 Australian of the Year Awards for South Australia.
Australian of the Year
"You can’t see borders from up there, just a fragile, shared home, and a powerful truth: we’re all in this together.
Space is not about escaping the Earth but helping us to see it clearly."
Katherine's acceptance speech at the 2026 Australian of the Year awards ceremony is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when curiosity, courage and community come together.
From breaking barriers in space to inspiring the next generation of Australians to dream bigger, Katherine’s words speak to perseverance, teamwork and the power of collective effort — on Earth and beyond.
Get in touch
Community engagement enquiries
For media, content and public appearance requests related to Katherine, please email astroinvites@space.gov.au
Katherine does not accept paid speaking engagements and is not represented by any speaking bureaus or third parties.
Short film: Into the light
This feature was produced while Katherine was completing her astronaut training in Europe.
It showcases the power of a dream, and the determination and hard work that goes into making that dream a reality.
Katherine takes the audience on a journey from a childhood realisation of how vast our universe is, to the knowledge gained when we explore the unknown.
Career story
In high school, when asked to write down three different career options, Katherine only wrote down one word – astronaut.
An ambassador for STEM
“One of the best parts of my job is meeting young Australians and exciting them about the wonders of space and STEM."
For media, content and public appearance requests related to Katherine
Katherine does not accept paid speaking engagements and is not represented by any speaking bureaus or third parties.
Short film: A childhood dream that turned into reality
This film was produced after Katherine graduated from her astronaut training in Europe.
It highlights what it means for Katherine to be an astronaut and the opportunities it unlocks for Australia — its space sector and the next generation.
"To be an astronaut, better yet, an Australian astronaut is the culmination of a childhood dream and the amalgamation of my more adult dream to help grow the Australian space sector."
Australia’s opportunity for medical research in microgravity
Presentation from Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg at the 18th Australian Space Forum.
News highlights
Which career is right for you?
Navigate a day on the Moon in our short interactive quiz to find out which role best suits your strengths.
Main image credit: Eugene Hyland