[ASA] Reminder: Blue Horizons 2026 (12-13 November, Canberra) - Meet the Teams Behind Australia’s Next Space Missions and Register Today

[Lucyna Chudczer (AAL)]

Internal

Dear Colleagues,
Help Shape the Next Generation of Space Astronomy at Blue Horizons 2026<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/DZwsCq71mwfR0VrLMTZfK2sEflxo?domain=sites.google.com>
Australian space astronomy is entering an exciting new era. SWIFT, Waratah, Toliman and Raven are among a growing number of Australian missions moving rapidly from concept to launch, with some expected to fly as early as February next year.
These missions are supporting astronomy, planetary science, innovative telescope technologies and new approaches to observing the Universe from space.
At Blue Horizons 2026, you will have the opportunity to meet the teams behind these projects, hear about the latest developments, and contribute to discussions shaping the next generation of Australian space astronomy missions.



Australia's space astronomy conference, Blue Horizons 2026<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/DZwsCq71mwfR0VrLMTZfK2sEflxo?domain=sites.google.com>, is back this November, bringing together astronomers, engineers, mission designers, industry, and students to explore the future of Australian space astronomy.

As Australia looks toward its next generation of space missions, Blue Horizons provides a unique opportunity to hear directly from teams developing ambitious new telescope concepts, connect with collaborators across the astronomy and space sectors, and help shape the nation's future capabilities in space.



Featured Mission Concepts

This year's program will highlight a range of exciting space mission concepts at different stages of development, including UVESS,  SkyHopper, SWIFT, Toliman, Raven, and Waratah, alongside other emerging Australian initiatives, and international collaborations.

These missions represent the next generation of space-based astronomy and provide a unique opportunity to engage directly with the scientists, engineers, and project leaders driving them from concept to reality. Attendees will gain firsthand insight into the scientific goals, technological challenges, and pathways to delivering Australia's future space astronomy capability.


Keynote Speakers



> Tim Parsons (HEO) space scientist and mission leader at HEO, with extensive experience in space mission development and a leading role in HEO's contribution to Australia's ambitious Apophis asteroid flyby mission..



> Professor Erika Hamden (University of Arizona) a leader in the field of space astrophysics and space telescope design and has created programs to teach early career scientists how to develop their own space missions (NASA's PI Launchpad<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/chZaCr81nyt6VWjwBTzh6Os4pnyk?domain=science.nasa.gov>).



> Dominic Shumilin (ASA), Assistant Director (India and Space Security) in the International Partnerships team at the Australian Space Agency, brings valuable expertise in international space collaboration and strategic engagement.



Why Attend?

Blue Horizons 2026 is designed to help mission teams, researchers and students:



🚀 Build new collaborations across astronomy, engineering and industry

🚀 Learn how mission concepts progress from science case to launch

🚀 Explore funding, technology and partnership opportunities

🚀 Connect with leaders shaping Australia's space future

🚀 Present new ideas and contribute to the national conversation on future missions



Whether you are developing a mission concept, interested in space instrumentation, or simply curious about the future of Australian space astronomy, Blue Horizons offers an opportunity to become part of the community building the next generation of discoveries.



Event Details

12-13 November 2026
Australian National University, Canberra

Learn more, register, or submit an abstract via the Blue Horizons website<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/DZwsCq71mwfR0VrLMTZfK2sEflxo?domain=sites.google.com>.



Join us as we explore bold ideas, forge new collaborations, and help define Australia's next chapter in space astronomy.





On behalf of LOC:


Dr. Sarah E. Caddy

Head of Space Domain Awareness Projects

Melbourne Space Laboratory | The University of Melbourne

T: +61 429 264 152 | E: sarah.caddy at unimelb.edu.au<mailto:sarah.caddy at unimelb.edu.au>
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