A new era in Australian space exploration

NASA is preparing to launch three rockets from the Arnhem Space Centre in the Northern Territory, scheduled for the end of this month and early July. Professor Melissa Zwart from Flinders University tells us the three rockets are “sounding” rockets. They won’t actually reach orbit, but they will collect scientific data.

It’s a big deal, it’s the first time NASA has conducted a rocket launch from a commercial facility outside the United States. The traditional custodians of the land, the Gumatj people, support the project. Gumatj Corporation chair Djawa Yunupingu said the launch plans are “a step towards the future for our people”.

What does NASA’s plans to launch rockets from the Northern Territory mean for the future of space research in Australia?

Today's Headlines:

- Higgins' trial delayed after Wilkinson's Logies speech
- International Rugby League bans trans athletes
- Energy market shutdown could be lifted
- La Nina weather pattern ends

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