Reaching for the stars

A secondary school in Perth’s northern suburbs is a step closer to establishing a space academy to inspire and educate the next generation of astronauts.

Joseph Banks Secondary College signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Australian Remote Operations for Space and Earth (AROSE) in what was the first step in setting up the Western Australian Space Science Education Centre at the College.

The Centre will be a purpose-built facility that will provide students with a simulated Mars surface, specialist facilities to perform space science experiments, as well as technology that will provide a mission control experience.

It will offer opportunities for students across Western Australia to learn about space, mission control, remote operations (mining), robotics, AI and cyber security in a state-of-the-art facility.

Joseph Banks Secondary College principal Eleanor Hughes said the centre is due to open mid-2023 and was a major milestone for the Joseph Banks Secondary College Looking Forward STEM strategy.

“The College will work with AROSE to provide students with opportunities to engage with the diverse set of career opportunities available to them, outside traditional vocations,” she said.

“Space is a very attainable career path to pursue in WA, and together with AROSE, we want to enable a clear pipeline for our youth to remain in the State for tertiary qualifications and employment in the sector.”

AROSE chief executive Leanne Cunnold said she wanted to inspire the next generation and show them what future careers were available in the industry, including going to the Moon and beyond.

“As an industry-led organisation, we want to establish a positive two-way relationship with industry and schools like Joseph Banks, to co-design curriculum and provide real world links that have a meaningful impact for student career options and pathways,” she said.