Australia has announced that it will be cancelling its billion-dollar plan to develop a series of space satellites. The decision comes as the country tries to cut costs in the midst of an economic slowdown and a cost-of-living crisis.
The National Space Mission for Earth Observation, which was unveiled just last year, was seen as a crucial step in developing Australia’s space industry. The program aimed to design, build, and operate four satellites that would be launched between 2028 and 2033 to gather Earth observation data. This data is used to forecast weather patterns, respond to natural disasters, and manage the environment.
However, the country’s center-left government has decided to scrap the plan for “budget repair” reasons. This means that Australia will now have to rely on earth data from overseas partners. Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic explained that prioritizing “broader environmental things” while also combating inflation has led to the need for “tough calls” to be made.
The government has made a promise to balance the budget this year, despite slow economic growth and an increase in defense spending. The decision to cancel the satellite program has been criticized by the Space Industry Association of Australia, who called it “shortsighted.” They believe that it will undermine the government’s agenda on climate, defense, STEM education, advanced manufacturing, and building tech jobs.
Overall, this decision reflects Australia’s current focus on cutting costs and balancing the budget, even at the expense of its space industry development.
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