2026 Events
Australian Space Summit & Exhibition 2026 – Principal Partner
We are thrilled to announce that Space Centre Australia has been named Principal Partner for the 2026 Australian Space Summit & Exhibition, hosted by Space Connect — a marquee national gathering of government, industry, defence and research leaders shaping the future of Australia’s space sector.
Why This Matters
This Summit represents a pivotal moment for Australia’s space ambitions. The 2026 Summit brings together senior policymakers, industry executives, global space agencies, defence stakeholders, academia and emerging commercial players. It’s where strategic vision, sovereign capability, and international collaboration converge.
As Principal Partner, Space Centre Australia will help drive key agenda themes including:
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National space-infrastructure development and sovereign launch capability
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Advanced research and commercial space services
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STEM, Indigenous engagement, workforce development and regional growth
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International partnerships, global launch and mission collaboration
What We’re Bringing to the Summit
At the 2026 Summit, Space Centre Australia will showcase:
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The development of Atakani Space Centre in Cape York — Australia’s first large-scale, multi-use spaceport designed to support launch operations, deep-space communications, airborne science, ground infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.
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Our international collaboration and global reach, including partnership with NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, and a strategic presence at NASA Wallops Flight Facility (Virginia, USA) — underscoring our commitment to global collaboration, dual-hemisphere access, research missions, data relay, and aerospace program support.
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Thought leadership and strategic roundtables on sovereign capability, economic development, regional industries, STEM, and Australia’s place in the global space ecosystem.
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A slate of major announcements and new international programs — to be officially revealed for the first time at the Summit.
Mark the Date
Keep an eye on this page for event updates, agendas, and details — and be among the first to hear about the major initiatives and collaborations we’ll be launching at the Summit.
Coming soon: live updates, key announcements, and how to connect with our team at the Australian Space Summit & Exhibition 2026.
2025 Events
2025 HELIOTECH Symposium
The 2025 HESTO’s HELIOTECH Symposium was held jointly with the NASA Suborbital Symposium, enabling technologists to meet with science mission leads from all science disciplines. The combined hybrid symposium took place from September 8-12 hosted at the John Hopkins University’s Applied Physics Laboratory located between Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD.
Leasing Event – Atakani Space Centre
Space Centre Australia has secured the land for the Atakani Space Centre in Cape York — the largest spaceport site commitment in Australia’s history. This historic achievement is the culmination of nearly six years of respectful Indigenous and community consultation with the Luthiggi Traditional Landowners and Mokwiri RNTBC. The agreement ensures cultural heritage, environmental stewardship, and community priorities are embedded at the heart of the project, setting a new benchmark for Indigenous engagement and integration in major national infrastructure.
The Atakani Space Centre will deliver Australia’s first fully integrated, sovereign launch capability — from sounding rockets and scientific balloon missions to sub-orbital, low Earth orbit, and heavy-lift launches. Strategically located near Weipa in Far North Queensland, the site offers unmatched access to both equatorial and polar orbits with year-round launch windows. Once complete, Atakani will serve commercial, defence, and scientific missions, strengthening Australia’s position in the global space economy while demonstrating how innovation and tradition can thrive side by side.
Royal International Air Tattoo July 2025
Space Centre Australia was proud to participate in the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, one of the world’s leading aerospace and defence showcases. During the event, we were honoured to be formally invited by Marshall Aerospace to a series of high-level meetings focused on advancing our C-130J Super Hercules Acquisition Program and shaping its integration into our multi-role operations.
These discussions marked a significant milestone in strengthening international collaboration and underlined the global recognition of Space Centre Australia’s role in delivering innovative airborne science and space launch capabilities. RIAT 2025 also provided the platform to present the progress of Project Karman Line, our next-generation horizontal launch system designed to deliver responsive and flexible access to space. Together, these initiatives highlighted the convergence of advanced aerospace programs with Australia’s growing space industry, reinforcing our commitment to building a sovereign capability with global impact.
Space Centre Australia Proud to be Principal Sponsor of the Australian Space Summit and Exhibition
Space Centre Australia is honoured to be the Principal Sponsor of the 2025 Australian Space Summit and Exhibition. As a leader in Australia’s rapidly evolving space sector, we are proud to support this premier industry event, which brings together visionaries, policymakers, and innovators from around the globe.
Our sponsorship reflects our commitment to advancing Australia’s space capabilities and fostering meaningful dialogue around the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of space. Through this event, we aim to highlight the crucial role that Australian talent and technology will play in driving global space innovation.
Summit Highlights & Space Centre Australia’s Role
As the principal partner of the summit, Space Centre Australia (SCA) showcased its strategic vision for transforming Cape York into a premier spaceport. CEO James Palmer discussed the organization’s trajectory, highlighting partnerships with NASA, the U.S. Space Force, and potential collaborations with SpaceX. SCA is positioning itself as a global launch hub, aiming to provide large-scale launch solutions that foster international collaboration.
The summit featured over 70 speakers across two main stages, covering topics such as defence space strategy, satellite communications, hypersonic technologies, and the integration of space capabilities into the AUKUS alliance. Notably, a session titled “The stars align: How AUKUS is redefining Australia’s role in space” included insights from Brigadier General Anthony J. Mastalir, Commander of United States Space Forces Indo-Pacific, and Alan Clements, Chief Executive of L3Harris.
Scott Morrison, former Prime Minister and now Advisory Chairman of Space Centre Australia, was a prominent figure throughout the summit. In his keynote address, he emphasized the strategic importance of space in modern defence, warning of advancements by nations like China and Russia in space-based weaponry. He advocated for the inclusion of a dedicated space-focused “Pillar III” within the AUKUS alliance, complementing existing focuses on submarines and advanced technologies.
In media appearances, including an interview with Sky News, Morrison discussed the concept of a “Golden Dome” defence system proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. He suggested that Australia could play a role in such initiatives, highlighting the nation’s potential contributions to global space defence strategies.
A historic announcement at the summit was the unveiling of the Atakani Space Centre in Cape York, Queensland. Situated 40 km east of Weipa, this 300-square-kilometer facility is poised to become one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most strategically important launch sites. With direct access to equatorial orbits, Atakani is uniquely positioned to support a diverse range of mission profiles—from suborbital testing and commercial satellite deployment to deep space exploration.
The name “Atakani” is derived from the local Luthiggi language, meaning “lily pad,” symbolizing life, connection to Country, and the enduring spiritual significance of the land and waterways. Space Centre Australia acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and is committed to building this project through a strong foundation of Indigenous partnership, cultural respect, and sustainable development.
Once operational, Atakani will offer comprehensive, ITAR-compliant, and mission-ready services for both commercial clients and government programs, including vertical launch complexes, payload integration facilities, range safety and mission control systems, and radar and tracking infrastructure. The facility is also envisioned to include Indigenous STEM education and tourism precincts, fostering community engagement and education.
With initiatives like the development of the Atakani Space Centre and active participation in international collaborations, Australia is poised to enhance its capabilities in space exploration, defence, and technology.
The Australian Media Coverage:
Syndey Morning Herald Coverage:
Sky News Coverage:
Advisory Chairman Scott Morrison Addresses the Australian Space Summit
Link: Keynote Address Hon. Scott Morrison
Space Centre Australia was proud to be the Principal Sponsor of the 2025 Australian Space Summit and Exhibition. Our involvement underscored our commitment to driving Australia’s leadership in the global space economy and fostering critical dialogue around national and international space capabilities.
In his keynote address, our Advisory Chairman, the Honourable Scott Morrison, reflected on Australia’s journey in building a resilient space industry — from our foundational investments in sovereign capabilities to our growing role within a cohesive allied network. He outlined the strategic importance of developing Australia’s space assets and the critical contributions Space Centre Australia is making to enhance economic, scientific, and security outcomes for our nation and our allies.
Mr. Morrison also highlighted Space Centre Australia’s Atakani Space Centre project — a Kennedy 2.0 for the Southern Hemisphere, leveraging Cape York’s unique equatorial location. He shared our vision of this site as a catalyst for national prosperity, regional development, and enduring alliances in the space domain.
James Palmer, CEO Addresses the Summit
James Palmer, Founder and CEO of Space Centre Australia (SCA), delivered a compelling keynote at the 2025 Australian Space Summit, charting Australia’s ascent in the global space sector through the lens of SCA’s evolution.
Link: SCA CEO James Palmer Keynote Speech
Building a Sovereign Space Capability
Palmer emphasized the challenges and triumphs in establishing a sovereign space capability. He highlighted SCA’s strategic initiatives, including the development of the Atakani Space Centre in Cape York, Queensland. This 300-square-kilometer facility is poised to become a premier launch site in the Southern Hemisphere, offering direct access to equatorial orbits.
International Collaborations and Technological Advancements
Under Palmer’s leadership, SCA has forged significant international partnerships. Notably, the company signed an agreement with NASA to develop horizontal launch capabilities, utilizing a modified C-130J Super Hercules aircraft for deploying payloads into low-Earth orbit.
Additionally, Palmer revealed ongoing discussions with SpaceX, indicating potential collaborations that could position SCA as a key player in global space operations.
Vision for Australia’s Space Industry
Palmer articulated a vision of Australia as a leading aerospace developer, aiming to rank among the world’s top interplanetary spaceport operators. He underscored the importance of integrating advanced manufacturing, sustainable practices, and cross-sector collaboration to propel the nation’s space industry forward.
James Palmer’s keynote underscored Space Centre Australia’s commitment to advancing Australia’s role in space exploration and technology. Through strategic partnerships and innovative projects, SCA is poised to make significant contributions to the global space community.
May 2025 – Space Centre Australia: Platinum Sponsor at the 2025 Western Cape Futures Symposium
Held on 7–8 May 2025 in Weipa, Queensland, the Western Cape Futures Symposium (WCFS) brought together over 250 delegates from across Australia and internationally to discuss innovation, resilience, and sustainable development in Far North Queensland.
As the event’s Platinum (Barramundi) Sponsor, Space Centre Australia (SCA) underscored its commitment to regional development and Australia’s growing space industry.
Leadership Participation
SCA’s CEO and Founder, James Palmer, and Advisory Chairman, the Hon. Scott Morrison, actively participated in the symposium. Mr. Morrison, Australia’s former Prime Minister, contributed to discussions on the strategic importance of Cape York for national space and defense initiatives.
Panel Contributions
On 8 May, Mr. Palmer joined a high-profile panel titled “To Infinity and Beyond”, alongside experts such as Professor Veena Sahajwalla (UNSW), Christopher De Luis (Australian Space Agency), and Colin Anstie (RD Consulting). The session focused on the role of science, innovation, and space in shaping sustainable futures for northern Australia.
Advocacy for Regional Growth
SCA emphasized Cape York’s geographic advantages for satellite launches and aerospace testing. The company highlighted its plans to develop a spaceport near Weipa, aiming to create skilled jobs and foster economic diversification in the region.
Community Engagement
SCA’s participation reflected its dedication to collaborating with local communities, Traditional Owners, and stakeholders to ensure that space industry developments align with regional aspirations and sustainability goals.
Through its active involvement in the symposium, Space Centre Australia reinforced its vision of establishing Cape York as a pivotal hub in Australia’s space endeavors, contributing to both national capabilities and local community advancement.
April 2025 – Space Centre Australia LLC Opening at Wallops Island Flight Facility
We are proud to announce the international launch of our flagship initiative — the Karman Line Project — officially unveiled at a special event held at NASA Wallops Flight Facility and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in the United States.
This historic moment marks the beginning of an ambitious program to establish end-to-end launch capabilities from our Cape York and Mareeba facilities, enabling commercial, civil, and deep space missions directly from Australian soil.
The Karman Line Project represents:
- Leverage a historic Space Act Agreement between Space Centre Australia LLC and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and NASA Wallops Flight Facility
- Provide economic and employment opportunities for the Virginia State and regional areas.
- A major leap forward in sovereign launch infrastructure
- Strategic partnerships with NASA and global aerospace leaders
- A foundation for LEO, lunar, and interplanetary access
- New pathways for international collaboration and investment
Our event at NASA Wallops brought together space industry leaders, mission planners, and international stakeholders to celebrate a shared vision of global launch access and innovation. It also marked the first step in a series of technical, commercial, and diplomatic milestones planned for 2025 and beyond.
As we move boldly into this new era of launch services, we invite you to follow our journey and engage with the growing ecosystem that is Space Centre Australia.
February 2025 Weipa Community Consultation Session
Space Centre Australia (SCA) will host a community consultation session at the Albatross Bay Resort conference room from 6:30pm on Thursday, 20 February. The session will provide updates on:
• SCA’s proposed launch centre near RAAF Scherger and Billys Lagoon,
• Planned air and marine traffic monitoring radar operations—including the first air traffic radar near Weipa Airport—on behalf of German sensor technology and defence company HENSOLDT,
• Opportunities for long-term economic diversification throughout the Western Cape region.
James Palmer, Chief Executive Officer of SCA, says the consultation aims to engage directly with local stakeholders:
“Our key goals are to gain a better understanding of the challenges the community faces with land tenure and to explore future investment opportunities in critical infrastructure development. We believe this project will be a catalyst for economic growth, while supporting normalisation for the Western Cape region.”
Mr Palmer also emphasized SCA’s plans for a more permanent presence in Weipa by the end of 2025, pending a successful capital-raising exercise currently underway in the United States. He noted that smaller launch operations and radar services could begin in late 2028 or early 2029, with larger launches potentially commencing in the early 2030s.
All community members are encouraged to attend the session to learn more, ask questions, and share feedback on the project. Our CEO will be on-hand to provide detailed information and discuss potential benefits for Weipa and the broader Cape York region.
2024 Events
HENSOLDT secures contract to deliver radar systems for Space Centre Australia
Taufkirchen/Germany, 17 October 2024 – Sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT has signed a contract with Space Centre Australia (SCA) to deliver two high-performance Air Surveillance Radar – Next Generation systems (ASR-NG), along with a 20-year sustainment plan to bolster Australia’s critical air surveillance capabilities. The total order volume of the initial phase is worth around 20 million euros (around $30 million AUD). Under the contract terms, HENSOLDT will deliver the two ASR-NG radars by the end of 2026, with sustainment services starting in 2027.
The primary radar of the ASR-NG has special signal processing technology for long-range airspace surveillance and the suppression of false signals from wind turbines. The 3D-capable radar thus enables the safe guidance of all aircraft within a radius of 120 NM and up to altitudes of 50,000 feet. The MSSR 2000 I secondary radar integrated in the ASR-NG ensures automatic identification of aircraft identified by transponder signals. It operates in accordance with the “Mode S” air traffic control standard, which entails a further improvement in interrogations for aircraft identification. The newly acquired radar units will support both high-altitude and low-altitude airspace management, aligning with Space Centre Australia’s mission to lead in space safety and aerospace industry innovation.
International Spaceport Collaboration MoU Signing Ceremony
Milan, Italy 13 October 2024
Today, at the annual FAA/GSA Summit eight commercial spaceports located across five continents signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU will establish a forum to explore potential strategic collaboration in a range of areas of common interest and introduce a dialogue on establishing international spaceport standards. The signatories believe these discussions will strengthen assured access to space and improve affordability. The discussions facilitated by this MOU will also aid in the creation of shared opportunities to introduce technology innovations and foster global cooperation in the rapidly growing commercial space sector.
School Donation Napranum Queensland Kluthuthu Christian College
We believe in investing in our local community, especially in our schools because our children are the architects of our future. Last year, we spearheaded a donation initiative, and we’re thrilled to see it come to fruition!
Thanks to the collaborative effort of Space Centre Australia, Freshwater Christian College, and Carpentaria Contracting, we were able to provide much-needed furniture, learning materials, and playground equipment to Kluthuthu Christian College in Napranum, Queensland. This generous contribution has brought a significant uplift to the school, and we’re immensely grateful for everyone’s support in making this happen.
Here’s a snapshot of the items donated:
– Student Desks
– Worktables
– Learning materials and books
– Teacher and office desks and chairs
– Whiteboards and Corkboards
– Outdoor tables and chairs for recess
– Outdoor swing set
Your individual and collective assistance has made a tangible difference in the lives of these students. Thank you for helping us create a brighter future for our community!
