You need a return authorisation (standard return) to return a space object to Australia or, as an Australian national, to return a space object outside Australia.
Alternatively, if you are an Australian national with a payload being carried by another space object and being returned overseas, you will need a return authorisation (overseas payload).
A return authorisation (standard return) is not required if the return is part of a connected return covered by an Australian launch permit.
The Australian Space Agency's National Space Safety Office (NSSO) can provide advice and guidance on whether you need a return authorisation and how to apply.
Costs and timelines
There are no fees for applying for a return authorisation, or for having your application assessed.
Application timelines are typically about 6 months from when you have submitted sufficient information to commence the application process.
For more information, download and read the latest guidelines available at the top of this page.
Application criteria include
-
competence
-
environmental approval
-
insurance and financial coverage
-
safety of design, construction, and operation (including flight path) aligning with Flight Safety Code
-
Australia’s security, defence, or international relations
-
whether your object is or contains a nuclear weapon or weapon of mass destruction
-
risk hazard analysis aligning with the Flight Safety Code
-
if applicable, the terms of agreement or arrangement between Australia and the launching State.
NOTE This list is not exhaustive. For more information, download the latest guidelines available at the top of this page.
Submit your EOI
Find the Expression of Interest (EOI) form at the top of this page
Submit your completed EOI, along with relevant material, via the Regulatory Application Hub.
Main image caption: In 2020, a capsule landed in regional South Australia. It was as part of Hayabusa2, a JAXA’s asteroid sample-return mission that the Agency had supported.
Credit: Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
