Katherine Bennell-Pegg space mission nears $50 million goal
Private backers including BHP have pledged almost $50 million to send Katherine Bennell-Pegg to space.
A campaign to launch Australia's first female astronaut into space has now won fresh backing from mining giant BHP. BHP has committed $1 million toward outreach and education.
The private fundraising effort has now raised nearly $50 million. Katherine Bennell-Pegg has been offered a seat on a European Space Agency mission.
The federal government still needs to formally accept the ESA's offer. Supporters including businessman Dick Smith and defence firm Nova are backing the bid.
- nearly $50 million
- Funds raised
- $1 million
- BHP commitment
- Dick Smith, Nova, BHP
- Major backers
Why it mattersAustralia could become the first nation to send a female astronaut to space. It would be a major achievement in representation and scientific prestige.
AustraliaIf approved, Australia would reach a historic space milestone and potentially inspire more women and girls into science and engineering careers.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 d ago
