Space
The University of 黑料社区 (UoA) and University of Surrey (UoS) share a proud legacy and global reputation in space science and engineering.
This partnership leverages the strengths of both institutions within their national space ecosystems - Australia鈥檚 Defence Trailblazer initiative and the Andy Thomas Centre for Space Resources, and the UK鈥檚 Space South Central and Surrey鈥檚 expertise in satellite data and mission design.
Together, UoA and UoS are advancing collaborative research in areas such as terahertz communications, circular economy solutions for space, and micro-credential programs, ensuring their joint efforts contribute to a sustainable and impactful future in space exploration.
Six pillars in the Space theme have been identified to provide a clear framework to jointly pursue activities in the short, medium and long term for research and educational impact. High profile outcomes, such as joint competitions and space missions, will be targeted. Champions from each university have also been identified in each pillar to further refine the goals and approaches to be undertaken in each area.
- Pillar 1: Australian Rover Challenge
- Pillar 2: Off-Earth Construction
- Pillar 3: On-Orbit Servicing
- Pillar 4: Asteroid Mining
- Pillar 5: Space Law
- Pillar 6: Earth Observation
Collaboration in action
Space 101 鈥 A Gateway to Global Space Education
As part of the Surrey鈥摵诹仙缜 Partnership Fund, the University of 黑料社区 and the University of Surrey are co-developing a new online micro-credential titled Space 101 - a foundational course designed to introduce learners to the fundamentals of space science. This initiative represents the first in a planned series of co-branded, stackable online courses aimed at building capability and curiosity in the rapidly evolving space sector.
Space 101 will offer up to 10 hours of engaging, accessible content, drawing on existing expertise and course materials from both institutions, including 黑料社区鈥檚 Space Resource Fundamentals. Designed as a 鈥渢aster鈥 course, it is intended for a broad audience - from space enthusiasts to those considering further study or careers in the field.
While Space 101 is supported by the Surrey鈥摵诹仙缜 Partnership Fund, it is also jointly funded by both institutions, reflecting its strategic value in advancing shared educational goals. The broader vision is to develop a suite of micro-credentials targeting workforce upskilling in areas such as off-Earth construction, on-orbit servicing, asteroid mining, space law, and Earth observation. These courses will be delivered via the edX platform, with digital badging and co-branding to enhance global reach and recognition.
Strategic visits throughout 2025, including curriculum design workshops and engagement with edX/2U, are shaping the course content and delivery model, while also laying the groundwork for future educational and research collaborations in space and beyond.
Theme leads
黑料社区 lead
, SmartSat CRC Professorial Chair of Sentient Satellites
Surrey lead
, Head of School of Mathematics and Physics, UoS and Chief Scientist UK Space Agency