The South Australian space industry took centre stage at the 76th International Astronautical Congress in Sydney earlier this month, showcasing the state’s innovative space capabilities.
The South Australian Space Industry Centre (SASIC) led a vibrant delegation of 20 local organisations, marking the state’s largest-ever presence at an IAC. The South Australia – the Space to Be stand was a cluster of activity across the week, drawing attention from international delegates, business delegations, researchers and students.
Local research and innovation in space and related technologies was also well represented, with more than 50 space research papers from South Australian-based academics, researchers, companies and organisations selected to appear as part of the IAC technical program.
Reflecting of the week’s success, South Australian Space Industry Centre (SASIC) Chief Executive Matt Opie highlighted the significance of IAC Sydney 2025 for the state’s growing space industry.
“The South Australia – the Space to Be stand was alive with activity across the entire week, with the event providing a valuable opportunity for local space companies and researchers to reach a global audience on home soil,” Mr Opie said.
“SASIC was pleased to host 20 local space companies on our stand, providing an international platform to showcase our state’s cutting-edge capabilities and global ambitions in space innovation.”
As part of the Australian Zone within the IAC exhibition, South Australia joined other states to deliver a powerful showcase of Australian credentials and capabilities across space technology and services, advanced manufacturing, research and innovation and sustainable practices.
The IAC also served as a launchpad for local space industry announcements, including:
- Saber Astronautics announced a new partnership with SpaceLab Space, to engage new customers and provide technical services, as part of a next-gen commercial space station program.
- Southern Launch and US-based Varda Space Industries unveiled an agreement for 20 spacecraft returns at the Koonibba Test Range.
- AICRAFT’s advanced edge computing technology was selected to power a mega satellite constellation being developed by India-based, TakeMe2Space.
- The Australasian Space Innovation Institute was launched, with the goal of driving the transformation of space research into practical applications for Australia’s economy, society and national security.
- Egress Space announced Australian space propulsion and manufacturing company Valiant Space has joined its growing portfolio of orbital and suborbital services.
With more than 100 space-related companies operating in the state, South Australia continues to thrive as a hub for collaboration, innovation, investment and growth.
The success at IAC Sydney 2025 will forge a strong future for the local space sector, further cementing South Australia’s reputation as a global leader in space innovation.
Learn more about South Australia’s presence at IAC Sydney 2025.
