76th International Astronautical Congress
South Australia has a long, rich history at the forefront of Australia’s space endeavours. A hub for world-class research, a dynamic full-service ecosystem, and space companies and start-ups developing innovative space technologies and capabilities – South Australia is the space to be.
With origins dating back to the nation’s first rocket launches in the 1950s, South Australia has played a lead role in driving Australia’s national and international space efforts.
Home to the Australian Space Agency, Responsive Space Operations Centre, Australia’s only lunar and Martian surface simulation laboratory, and a future space assembly, integration and test facility, South Australia continues to add to the nation’s list of space industry firsts.
South Australia has strategic geographic advantages that support a full space flight ecosystem welcoming launch and returns, and boasts a dynamic and connected space industry supported by leading research institutions and a thriving start-up culture.
With strong ties to Defence Space Command, the state also hosts a significant and diverse range of Australian Defence facilities, including the Woomera Range Complex and RAAF Base Edinburgh – housing the Defence Science and Technology Group’s largest Australian presence.
More than 100 space-related companies operate in the state and this number is growing, making South Australia a centre-of-gravity for Australian space activity. Fostering collaboration and investment, generating high-value jobs, and propelling economic growth, the South Australian space sector is delivering prosperity and on-Earth benefits for all.
Find out why South Australia is the space to be. Visit the South Australia stand at the 76th International Astronautical Congress. Find us at Stand 353 within the Australia Zone, from 29 September to 3 October. View site map.
South Australian Government Exhibitor Spotlight
South Australian Space Industry Centre (SASIC)
SASIC is the lead State Government agency for space industry development, driving space industry innovation, research and growth in South Australia, with a vision to create a thriving and enduring space ecosystem.
Working closely with Invest SA, SASIC provides a focal point for local industry and international organisations to connect and maximise opportunities within the state’s burgeoning space sector.
For any enquiries or to book a meeting with our team at IAC, please get in touch.
Defence and Space Landing Pad
Located at Lot Fourteen in Adelaide’s CBD, the Defence and Space Landing Pad is available for companies looking to establish a presence in South Australia. Managed by Defence SA, the site offers affordable, short-term office facilities and connects companies to government support programs and a network of companies working within the defence and space sectors.
Kanyini
South Australia’s first state-owned and manufactured satellite Kanyini successfully launched into low Earth orbit in August 2024. Designed and built at Lot Fourteen in Adelaide, the state-funded Kanyini mission was developed in partnership with the SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre, Inovor Technologies and Myriota, and stands as a testament of the state’s growing strength in space innovation, collaboration and talent development.
Space Manufacturing Capability
The South Australian Government is investing $20 million to lift the state’s space manufacturing capability, with plans underway to establish a common user space assembly, test and integration facility in Adelaide’s Lot Fourteen innovation district. The facility will provide industry access to specialised manufacturing equipment, accelerating the development of local space innovations.
Centre of Excellence in Plants For Space (P4S)
The P4S research centre leads Australian leadership, collaboration, and capacity in space-inspired plant and food research and drives transformational benefits for on-Earth industries and sustainability outcomes. Contributing to NASA’s Artemis Accords and led by The University of Adelaide, the centre supports the next generation of space explorers.
Space Information Sharing and Analysis Center
Headquartered in Adelaide, the US-based Space Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Space ISAC) Australia Global Hub facilitates international cooperation, coordination and information sharing, with the goal of reducing threats to Australian space missions and critical infrastructure.
Investment Accelerator Program
The South Australian Government, through Invest SA, aims to attract innovative, high-growth interstate and international companies to South Australia that will bring with them new technologies and capabilities to priority sectors, including space.
Contact tom.radomski@sa.gov.au to find out more.
South Australian Precincts Space and Innovation Precincts
Lot Fourteen
Home to the Australian Space Agency, Australian Mission Control Centre, Australian Space Discovery Centre, Defence and Space Landing Pad and so much more, Lot Fourteen is a growing innovation district that is home to a dynamic community working across space, defence, critical technologies and creative industries.
Launch Facilities
South Australia is home to two approved launch facilities, Koonibba Test Range and Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex.
Australian Space Discovery Centre
Located in the Adelaide CBD providing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, engagement and inspiration for young Australians.
Technology Park
An ideal location for established and emerging technology companies, Technology Park Adelaide has a strong focus on systems development and integration, information communication technology, advanced manufacturing and electronics.
Tonsley Innovation District
The Tonsley Innovation District brings together research, businesses, government and the wider community to connect and collaborate in Australia’s most awarded innovation district.
EXTERRES Laboratory
An Australian-first, the Extraterrestrial Environmental Simulation (EXTERRES) laboratory is a state-of-the-art facility supporting researchers and industry with design, testing and development of technologies and processes destined for the lunar and Martian surface.
