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Defence Minister Linda Reynolds, Defence Industry Minister Melissa Price, and Karen Andrews, Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, have announced that the first of a series of high altitude balloon launch trials has commenced, with the first balloon being successfully launched this week from West Wyalong in NSW.
Minister Reynolds said the balloon was launched into the stratosphere to explore the under-utilised altitudes between space and where aircraft generally fly.
The trials test Defence’s ability to quickly send sensors and communications equipment into the upper atmosphere carried on a balloon.
"The trial aims to demonstrate Australian designed and developed launch capabilities that can deliver and maintain sensor payloads to an altitude that significantly improves situational awareness over a wide area," Minister Reynolds said.
"Having these high altitude balloons as part of Australia’s sovereign capability means that we could deploy advanced sensors into the atmosphere quickly and cost-effectively, giving our forces comprehensive data in the air, on the ground."
This was reinforced by Minister Price, who explained the Commonwealth government's investments in defence capability are creating new opportunities for local businesses to innovate and take up opportunities in Australia’s burgeoning space sector.
Minister Price said, "Air Force’s partnership with ThunderStruck Space will help boost their capability and give us greater opportunities to access innovative Australian stratospheric launch capabilities."
A 3D printed version of Jasper, an award-winning animated character developed by Air Force to encourage more children to pursue STEM careers, will be filmed as she soars into the stratosphere on one of the balloons.
Minister Andrews said this offers an exciting way to demonstrate the application of science and advanced technologies to a broad audience.
"This event is sure to capture the imagination of our young people who are fascinated by aerospace. The fact that these launches are happening right here in our backyard gives Australians a real sense of the incredible opportunities and career pathways that are available," she added.
The trials are taking place in close consultation with the Civilian Aviation Safety Authority.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
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