Students and teachers from across Australia will once again have the opportunity to participate in a NASA sponsored international science and education program.
NASA and the Australian Space Agency have signed a cooperative agreement to re-engage in the Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE) program.
This worldwide initiative provides a unique opportunity for citizen scientists to participate in real time data collection, learning about the Earth and solving environmental problems.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said through a partnership with CSIRO, this exciting program will be reinvigorated and delivered to a cohort of GLOBE schools in Australia.
“We want to inspire the next generation and this program will help develop a future space workforce with strong STEM skills to keep the Australian economy growing,” Minister Andrews said.
“It also represents another significant agreement with NASA and follows the Government’s $150 million contribution towards Australian companies to participate in NASA’s Moon to Mars endeavour.
“Joining NASA initiatives including Moon to Mars and Artemis lunar program will give Australian students, researchers and businesses the opportunity to showcase our capabilities around the world.”
NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said he was excited to see Australia re-engage in the GLOBE program.
“Global observations are a critical component of this program and participation from observers across Australia will help ensure we have the best data possible to help students, teachers, scientists and citizens promote science and learn about the environment,” Mr Bridenstine said.
“It also strengthens our partnership with a key international ally who will help us in our efforts to send the first woman and next man to the Moon in 2024 as part of the Artemis program.”
Head of the Australian Space Agency Dr Megan Clark AC said the program was an excellent opportunity to get children engaged in STEM education.
“Inspiring young Australians in space is a really important priority for the Australian Space Agency,” Dr Clark said.
CSIRO Chief Scientist Dr Cathy Foley said the current demand for online learning and home education made this a great time for the reintroduction and reinvigoration of the GLOBE program.
“STEM skills will be essential to Australia’s recovery and future resilience, which is why CSIRO is committed to working with partners like NASA and the Australian Space Agency to ensure Australia has a strong and vibrant STEM pipeline for the
future,” Dr Foley said.
The international GLOBE network includes representatives from 123 countries.
The Morrison Government is investing close to $700 million into Australian space sector as part of our goal to triple its size to $12 billion and create an extra 20,000 jobs by 2030.
