Partnership propels Indigenous space talent to NASA’s JPL

The Andy Thomas Space Foundation (ATSF) will again sponsor an Indigenous science student to participate in Monash University’s National Indigenous Space Academy (NISA) program.  

The successful student will attend an immersive 10-week mentoring experience at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) with leading scientists and engineers at the forefront of global space exploration and innovation.

Marking the second consecutive year of this impactful partnership, ATSF is helping to build a pipeline of Indigenous talent in the space sector, supporting students to gain first-hand insight into cutting-edge research, mission design and advanced engineering in one of the world’s premier space research environments.

Darcey Watson, CEO of ATSF says, “Sponsoring a National Indigenous Space Academy student is more than supporting a single journey -  it’s helping launch a leader whose story will inspire generations to come.

“At the Foundation, we believe in empowering young people who are ready to shape the future of Australia’s space industry with courage, curiosity, and vision. When students see young leaders stepping into these roles, they see possibility - a reminder that their own path can lead just as far and when we lift up these leaders, we help launch a future where every perspective has the power to reach the stars,” she says.

Monash University’s National Indigenous Space Academy supports high-achieving Indigenous STEM students from across Australia through industry engagement, cultural support and exposure to global space opportunities. The JPL mentoring experience represents a flagship element of the program, offering students unparalleled access to international expertise and networks.

Alaxandrea O’Brien, a Proud Dulgubarra-Mamu and Jirrbal woman from the University of Western Australia has received the Andy Thomas Space Foundation and NISA Women’s Leadership Scholarship to support her trip to NASA JPL in California.

“To receive the Andy Thomas Women's Leadership Sponsorship means more than words could capture for me. It's opened my eyes to the monumental impact that Australia has had and continues to have in Space. Starting my journey to JPL by meeting with Australian Space Professionals has filled me with awe and inspired me to explore the opportunities offered through the NISA program to the absolute fullest. Because just as we don't always know what we'll find in Space, you never know who will end up a part of our Space Missions - or even in Space exploring the depths of our universe. 

“To continue my journey in this way means that the little girl from the Kimberley made it, and more than that it means that other little girls from similar circumstances can be bold and brave in following their dreams too,” said Alaxandrea.

NISA’s founder is Professor Christopher Lawrence, Professor of Practice in Space Innovation and Security Capabilities in the Monash Faculty of Engineering. 

“Showing students what is possible can be the first step towards a career in STEM,” Professor Lawrence.

“The National Indigenous Space Academy gives First Nations students the opportunity to experience the space sector firsthand, build connections and see themselves in it. 

“It’s great to partner with the Andy Thomas Space Foundation once again to help create those pathways and inspire the next generation of STEM talent.” 

In renewing its NISA sponsorship, ATSF reinforces its mission to inspire the next generation of Australian space leaders while ensuring Indigenous students are represented and empowered in the nation’s growing space ecosystem.

We wish Alaxandrea every success as they head to NASA JPL, and look forward to seeing where this experience takes them as they build their skills, confidence and future in STEM. 

Since launching in 2023, NISA has provided space education opportunities for First Nations STEM students, with funding from the Australian Space Agency, and additional support from CSIRO, the Andy Thomas Space Foundation and Boeing.

Applications for NISA’s 2027 program will open soon. Students can apply via the NISA website.  

Learn more about the NISA program here. Learn more about The Andy Thomas Space Foundation here