AeroLabs Science is an international airborne research and innovation program operated by Space Centre Australia LLC.
It connects leading universities and research institutions across the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia to a shared airborne laboratory the C 130J-30 Super Hercules Research Aircraft enabling world class collaboration in atmospheric science, heliophysics, environmental monitoring, and aviation R&D.

The program’s objective is to advance multidisciplinary science through a single cooperative framework that unites airborne, near-space, and launch related research. It serves as a bridge between academic discovery, flight demonstration, and technology commercialization, aligning with NASA, NSF, UKRI, and Australian Research Council priorities.

Platforms and Capabilities

AeroLabs Science will provide future capabilities access to two complementary platforms:

C 130J-30 Super Hercules (SCA01) – A modified airborne science and horizontal launch platform equipped with palletized operator consoles, sensor pods, and telemetry systems. It supports missions ranging from atmospheric profiling and instrument calibration to near-space technology validation.

Karman Line Launch Vehicle – A multi-stage air-launched rocket system supporting sub orbital through low earth orbit (LEO) mission profiles. It enables universities to validate payloads, test propulsion systems, and participate in early orbit or re-entry science missions.

Together, these platforms enable end-to-end airborne and space enabled research, spanning instrument development, atmospheric and heliophysics science, and small payload launch demonstrations.

International Participation

AeroLabs Science through SCA LLC is open to accredited universities and research institutions in the United States, United Kingdom, EU and Australia. It is designed to respect each jurisdiction’s academic governance and public-institution requirements while aligning with NASA, ESA, FAA, UK CAA, and Australian Space Agency frameworks.

Through this shared airborne research infrastructure, AeroLabs Science provides a collaborative bridge between allied academic systems, advancing education, science, and aerospace innovation across the trans atlantic and indo pacific regions.

Engagement Benefits

• Access to a future C-130J-30 Airborne Laboratory and Karman Line launch platform for sub-orbital and LEO research.

• Opportunity to lead or collaborate on funded research missions.

• Integration of students and researchers into real flight operations, data analysis, and publication cycles.

• Participation in a cross national scientific alliance aligned with NASA, NSF, UKRI, and Australian research frameworks.

How to Make Initial Contact

Institutions and research teams interested in joining the AeroLabs Science Consortium are encouraged to make initial contact through Space Centre Australia LLC.

Step 1 – Expression of Interest
Submit a brief outline of your institution’s research focus, proposed mission objectives, or areas of collaboration (e.g. atmospheric science, heliophysics, aviation R&D). Include relevant academic or agency affiliations, anticipated timelines, and technical readiness level (TRL) if known.

Step 2 – Introductory Discussion
The AeroLabs Science coordination team will arrange an introductory call to discuss your research objectives, integration needs, and potential campaign opportunities.

Step 3 – Eligibility and Alignment Review
Following the call, our team will conduct an eligibility review to ensure alignment with consortium frameworks, export-control requirements, and NASA/ASA partnership standards.

Step 4 – Next Steps
Eligible proponents will receive a Consortium Participation Pack outlining membership terms, mission planning procedures, and cost structures.

Contact Channels

Complete the Below Web Form or reach out on Social Media

Latest News

October 2025 – Space Centre Australia LLC and Umass The Lowell Center for Space Science and Technology (LOCSST) Sign 5 Year agreement.

University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) and Space Centre Australia LLC have officially signed a five year agreement to join the AeroLabs Science Consortium, establishing a major international collaboration in airborne science, low earth orbit research and horizontal launch innovation.
This milestone partnership positions UMass Lowell’s Lowell Center for Space Science and Technology at the heart of the consortium and connects U.S., U.K. and Australian academia with dedicated platforms for multidisciplinary research.

(Image Credit: For attribution purposes, the photographer is Ed Brennen / UMass Lowell)

News Links:

Official Media Release: t.e2ma.net/message/cfujcg/cb763zq

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