Marcus Andreucci has big plans for South Australia’s space industry since studying at a world leading space university through the South Australian Space Scholarship program.

The Space Scholarship Program, delivered by the South Australian Space Industry Centre (SASIC), provides scholarships of up to $20,000 to eligible South Australian entrepreneurs and innovators to assist in the development of their leadership skills, experience and knowledge in the space sector through education and training around the globe.

Marcus had always planned to graduate from his Bachelor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Adelaide before moving into a graduate position within the defence industry. From there, he would develop his skills and hope that one day there might be an opportunity to transition into the space industry.

“I have always had an interest in space, but I didn’t understand much about the actual work until I entered university,” Marcus said.

“My first real introduction to the industry was an Adelaide University American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) student branch presentation where I was lucky enough to see Flavia Tata Nardini talk about her experiences and work creating both Fleet Space Technologies and LaunchBox.

“Her presentation was interesting and motivated me to engage more with the space industry. From there my involvement in AIAA and space industry related events rapidly grew.”

Marcus quickly turned his attention to the space industry, particularly focusing on launchers and space vehicles, such as rovers.

“The incredible work that goes into developing the launcher systems, ensuring the safety of both astronauts and payloads, is amazing to see,” he said.

“Recent innovations in the launcher domain have introduced newer companies with different goals, making the space more competitive and exciting to watch.

“Similarly, the technical innovations that have been included in programs such as the Perseverance rover and the Ingenuity Mars helicopter are fascinating and give us a never-before-seen view and understanding of the red planet.”

Marcus applied for the South Australian Space Scholarship requesting assistance to send him to the Institut Supérieur De L’aéronautique Et De L’espace (ISAE-SUPAERO) in France, the world leading university for aerospace engineering.

“I had not always planned on studying for a master’s degree, but once I found the opportunity offered by ISAE-SUPAERO I knew it was the right choice for me.

“Once I was set on this program, I knew that the South Australian Space Scholarship was an excellent opportunity to help me achieve my goal.”

Marcus’s experience at ISAE-SUPAERO provided him not only with a global perspective on the current and future needs of the space industry, but with valuable international and intercultural experience.

“I have grown personally because of this, becoming more open and excited to try new things.

“I have also grown professionally, through my research experiences and newfound expertise in aerospace engineering, as well as building a vast professional network, which has unlocked the possibility of future international collaboration for me.”

Marcus now has his sights set firmly on a career in the space industry, with the intention of travelling the globe before bringing his knowledge and experience back to South Australia’s booming space industry.

“My current career plan is to work and develop my skills in areas that are relevant to the space industry.

“In a few years I hope to return to Europe and work within the international space industry to gain further experience before returning to Adelaide and make a strong contribution to the South Australian space industry.”

Marcus said he would strongly encourage graduates with their eyes set firmly on the stars to apply for the South Australian Space Scholarship program.

“If you have a clear goal and the drive to achieve it, the South Australian Space Scholarship program is an excellent way to get financial aid to help you succeed.”

Applications for the current round of South Australian Space Scholarships close midnight, 17 May 2021.

To find out more visit sasic.sa.gov.au/scholarships-grants/sa-space-scholarships/