Space is often the setting for Sci-Fi movies and fantasy worlds, but it has so much more potential than just being a part of a fictional story.

Advancements in space have been the platform for some of the greatest technological breakthroughs of the last century: including GPS, smoke detectors, portable computing and medical equipment. Without humanity’s desire to expand its universe, we wouldn’t be able to use, let alone have the map app on our phone.

Australia has a rich history when it comes to space, but does not have a Space Agency. This has crippled our space industry. Here are 10 reasons why Australia urgently needs a Space Agency:

1. To establish how satellites can solve Australia’s problems

2. To lead the development of satellite programs identified as useful 

3. To be a technically informed customer representing the government

4. To provide leadership on technical space issues

5. To drag Australia out of its “freeloader” approach to satellite utilisation

6. To allow Australia to communicate with international agencies at a technical level

7. To fill the gap in technical responsibilities in space

9. To stabilise space funding 

10. To ensure our very best young engineers are not forced to go overseas if they want to pursue their ambitions in space

So there are plenty of reasons to establish a space agency - otherwise, Australia will remain “lost in space”. 

(see http://theconversation.com/ten-reasons-why-australia-urgently-needs-a-space-agency-16386