She was the first person ever to become an astronaut wearing the Australian flag – and now Australian of the year Katherine Bennell-Pegg could finally be taking that flag into space.

The federal government has sent an offer to the European Space Agency to send Bennell-Pegg on a 2028 space mission.

If accepted, it will be the first time an astronaut has travelled to space under the Australian flag.

But there’s a $100 million dollar catch.

Today, co-director of the Space Technology and Industry Institute at Swinburne University, Dr Rebecca Allen on whether the hefty price tag is worth it – and why she thinks Australia needs to become a player in the space game.

 

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Guest: Co-Director of the Space Technology Institute at Swinburne Uni, Dr Rebecca Allen

Photo: AAP Image/Darren England

She was the first person ever to become an astronaut wearing the Australian flag &ndash; and now Australian of the year Katherine Bennell-Pegg could finally be taking that flag into space.
The federal government has sent an offer to the European Space Agency to send Bennell-Pegg on a 2028 space mission.
If accepted, it will be the first time an astronaut has travelled to space under the Australian flag.
But there&rsquo;s a $100 million dollar catch.
Today, co-director of the Space Technology and Industry Institute at Swinburne University, Dr Rebecca Allen on whether the hefty price tag is worth it &ndash; and why she thinks Australia needs to become a player in the space game.
&nbsp;
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at <a href="http://7ampodcast.com.au/support">7ampodcast.com.au/support</a>.
&nbsp;
Socials: Stay in touch with us on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/7ampodcast">Instagram</a>
Guest: Co-Director of the Space Technology Institute at Swinburne Uni, Dr Rebecca Allen
Photo:&nbsp;AAP Image/Darren England

An independent daily news show. We feature the country’s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.

An independent daily news show. We feature the country&rsquo;s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.

The $100 million mission to send an Australian into space

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