South Australian space companies and Lot Fourteen residents Neumann Space and QuantX Labs have been awarded Moon to Mars Supply Chain Capability Improvement Grants for projects totalling $1,532,222.
The Moon to Mars initiative was designed to advance Australia’s space industry by championing cutting-edge space projects. Nuemann Space and QuantX Labs are among 12 Australian space firms leading projects aligned to NASA’s Artemis mission, that have been awarded a share in more than $9 million funding as part of the latest round of the program.
Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic believes the projects highlight the research and innovation taking place in Australia’s space sector.
“Excitingly, the technologies and products being developed also have applications that can see us respond to important challenges and opportunities – from addressing climate change to driving growth in Government priority areas like robotics, quantum and advanced manufacturing,” he said.
Spacecraft propulsion systems specialists Neumann Space has been awarded $1,000,000 to advance their Australian Spacecraft Electric Propulsion Manufacturing Capability project. Funding will be used to develop a world-class spacecraft electric propulsion manufacturing and test facility, unique to Australia, right here in South Australia.
The facility will support both national and international space missions and looks to enhance the local industry’s capabilities and capacity.
The second local beneficiary, defence technology firm QuantX Labs has been awarded $532,222 for a Manufacturing Facility for Space-based, Photonic Technologies project.
The company’s grant will be used to establish a hybrid advanced photonics manufacturing facility that supports the manufacturing of quantum capable, precision timing and sensing systems.
This news signifies a ‘big leap’ for South Australia, highlighting opportunity, enhanced innovation, and increased investment for key industry players like Neumann Space and QuantX Labs.
Head of Australian Space Agency Enrico Palermo echoed this sentiment.
“These projects show the agility and innovative nature of Australia’s space companies, and how we can carve our niche in big international missions.”
“Space is a global endeavour and by working with our partners like NASA we can create outcomes that benefit Australia, while also contributing to solutions to global challenges.”
