THE ASTRA PROGRAM

An online summer space program

Applications opening soon for 2024/25

Multidisciplinary.

Australian focused.

Youth-led.

Real problems.

Stirring Up Carbonate in the Coral Sea

NASA Earth Observatory

What is the Astra Program?

The Astra Program is an AYAA initiative which provides tertiary students and young professionals of all disciplines an opportunity to learn about important issues in the Australian space industry. 

In workshops over the summer, participants gain valuable knowledge of Australia’s space sectors, connect in one-on-one dialogue with space professionals, and provide ideas for the future of the industry.

Each Astra Program cohort is split into three teams: Acacia, Banksia, and Casuarina. Each team explores a different, relevant topic within today’s space industry in Australia. Teams meet online in weekly workshops over the summer to create a white paper which is presented to industry at the close of the program.

Something different every week! Our enthusiastic programs team ensures workshops are engaging and help you dive into your topic while connecting with your team. Some sessions feature presentations from industry leaders and subject matter experts – either addressing the whole cohort or focused on specific team topics. The program also includes some social activities!

The main deliverable for the program is a white paper. Each white paper includes background information on the topic, a review of current solutions or policies, case studies, and finishes with recommendations directed to the Australian space sector. This white paper is published and distributed by the AYAA.

If you are a tertiary student or young professional with a passion for the Australian space sector you are eligible. No prerequisite knowledge is required but a willingness to learn is. We do accept overseas candidates, though priority is given to those living in Australia.

Star Trails over Kennedy Range National Park, WA

Brian McMahon

THIS YEAR'S PROGRAM

In 2025, Australia will welcome the world to Sydney for the 76th International Aeronautical Congress. Inspired by this, participants in the 2024/25 Astra Program will explore topics that examine Australia’s place in the international space community.

Astra’s weekly workshops are the place to collaborate with your team, learn from industry experts, and take advice from your Team Coordinators. Workshops are held on Tuesday evenings from 7pm-9pm AEDT (6pm-8pm AEST, 3pm-5pm AWST).

26th Nov 2024

Dec 2024

Jan-Feb 2025

Mid Feb 2025

End Feb 2025

Program launch!

Get to know your team and your topic.

Participate in expert sessions and draft your white paper.

Submit your white paper for expert review.

Present your paper at our annual showcase event.

Night sky near Sydney, NSW

Kewal Wadibhasme

THIS YEAR'S PROGRAM

In 2025, Australia will welcome the world to Sydney for the 76th International Aeronautical Congress. Inspired by this, participants in the 2024/25 Astra Program will explore topics that examine Australia’s place in the international space community.

Astra’s weekly workshops are the place to collaborate with your team, learn from industry experts, and take advice from your Team Coordinators. Workshops are held on Tuesday evenings from 7pm – 9pm AEDT (6pm-8pm AEST, 3pm-5pm AWST).

26th Nov 2024

Program launch!

Dec 2024

Get to know your team and your topic.

Jan-Feb 2025

Participate in expert sessions and draft your white paper.

Mid Feb 2025

Submit your white paper for expert review.

End Feb 2025

Present your paper at our annual showcase event.

Night sky near Sydney, NSW

Kewal Wadibhasme

2024/25 Program topics

Space Collaboration in Oceania and Southeast Asia
Australia’s Edge in the Global Space Effort
Communicating Space to Australia and the World

Participant Testimonials

“Best crash course into the current status of the Australian Space Industry. Your time is spent with an excellent group of people and Astra supports you to step out of your comfort zone. Would highly recommend!”

“If you want to engage with the space community, the Astra program should be a prerequisite. The skills, perspectives, understandings and connections you gain is invaluable. Plus, you get your name on a paper!”

“By working with other students and young professionals from a diverse range of disciplines, the Astra program has made me look at the Australian space industry from a new, well rounded perspective.”

Astra is an AYAA initiative

The AYAA is a not-for-profit organisation managed by student volunteers and young professionals. Their objective is promoting education, awareness, and involvement of young people in the aerospace and aeronautics industry across Australia.

See ayaa.com.au for more details.

 

Thank you to our sponsors

Supported by

Southern Night Sky over Cape Schanck, Vic

Yong Chuan Tan