Released 18/07/2019
CSIRO Discovery Centre visitors can now experience life as an astronaut and learn more about Canberra's involvement in the space industry in a new immersive virtual reality exhibit.
Minister assisting the Chief Minister on Advanced Technology and Space Industries Mick Gentleman said visitors could walk on the moon, explore a lunar space station and see breathtaking views of Earth.
"The ACT Government funded the project as part of commemorations for the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, Minister Gentleman said.
"Canberra has a long and proud history of involvement in the global space industry. The very first live images of the Apollo 11 lunar module landing on the Moon were received in Canberra at the former Honeysuckle Creek Tracking Station.
"Today, almost one in four Australian space sector jobs – around 2,000 – are here in Canberra and the capability of our local industry is internationally renowned.
"Canberra's research and education institutions and innovative space-based businesses make significant contributions to our economy.
"The government is committed to promoting STEM education and working with Canberra's space industry to help further build our global competitiveness.
"We are continuing to support the growth of space and technology, along with collaboration between industry and tertiary education and research institutions through our Priority Investment Program."
Director of CSIRO Business and Infrastructure Services Dave Agnew said as Australia remembers Apollo 11 and the important role NASA facilities just outside Canberra played, we should also look to the future.
"This virtual reality experience will help show future generations of STEM professionals the sort of opportunities and challenges space can provide," Mr Agnew said.
"To support Australia's space industry, we need to create pathways for people to build skills that will be in demand in the future. STEM education opportunities, like this exhibition, are at the heart of building these pathways."
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases
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