UNSW Canberra Space Research

Our Research Priorities

Space-based technologies have an ever-growing presence in our daily lives. UNSW Canberra Space research is aimed at evolving these technologies that are essential in areas such as national security, environmental monitoring, emergency management and secure communications. We are also researching the ethical challenges that global advances in space might create and how we could solve these potential problems.

Space Situational Awareness

Space Situational Awareness (SSA) is the understanding of the very large number of objects in orbit around the Earth, the complex and dynamic environment that they orbit in, and their interactions with that environment.

Space Ethics

New advances in space technology and science potentially open up whole new worlds for humans to explore. However, not all innovation is positive, and even the development of ‘good’ technologies can have negative outcomes.

Artificial Intelligence for Space

The application of Artificial Intelligence to space systems is a growing research strength for UNSW Canberra Space. We focus on the development of miniaturised satellites as edge devices, capable of performing complex tasks and analysis of data on orbit.

Learn With Us

When the next generation of space professionals are educated at UNSW Canberra, they learn in the context of real space missions and learn from leaders in the Australian space industry. From short courses to masters degrees and PhD research projects, find out how you can launch your career in this rapidly growing industry.

Postgraduate Coursework and Professional Education 

Our postgraduate courses will help put you on the right path for a rewarding career in space. We offer two masters programs: Master of Space Engineering and Master of Space Operations, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Space Operations. We can also tailor aspects of these programs to deliver professional short courses that suit the needs of your organisation. 

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Postgraduate Research and PhD Openings

Our postgraduate research degrees provide the opportunity to work with leading academics in your chosen field. A number of exciting PhD opportunities in the science and technology that underpins space operations and in the application of AI to space are available. You will work with the UNSW Canberra Space team and help contribute to Australia’s growing space industry.