Vignette 86: Space exploration

Our Extraterrestrial Environmental Simulation (EXTERRES) Laboratory marks a significant milestone as the first of its kind in Australia. This advanced facility is designed to test equipment bound for the moon and Mars, creating exciting opportunities in advancing technology for space exploration.

It has cutting-edge facilities for comprehensive equipment testing in controlled environments. The laboratory produces lunar masonry bricks for developing structures required for sustained human presence on other planets. Students can use the laboratory to undertake real world space technology and robotics projects to understand how technology will perform when exposed to harsh extra-terrestrial environments.

EXTERRES aligns with Australia’s ambitious plans to expand its space industry in South Australia, in particular, emerging as a hub for space-related activities, collaborating with international agencies, hosting successful startups, and featuring the Australian Space Park, the country’s first dedicated space manufacturing hub. 

In collaboration with the South Australian Space Industry Centre and the Australian Space Agency, EXTERRES aims to assist NASA in addressing realistic scenarios for lunar and Martian missions. It is leading space exploration research at the University, contributing to Australia’s emergence in the global space industry and inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Leading for the future. p.120