ASPI report urges Australia and South Korea to deepen space collaboration

A new report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) calls for Australia and South Korea to significantly expand their cooperation in space technology, according to a statement released on Tuesday.

The report, authored by ASPI Visiting Senior Fellow Sangsoon Lee, argues that while space cooperation between the two nations “remains stuck in its infancy,” both countries possess complementary strengths that could form the foundation of a robust partnership.

The report also conveys that both countries, equipped with unique strengths in satellite technology, space launch infrastructure and strategic locations, are well positioned to forge a robust partnership in space development.

The analysis comes amid growing concerns about Australia’s space sector development. The cancellation of major projects including the National Space Mission for Earth Observation and JP9102, without clear alternatives, has raised questions about the government’s commitment to space initiatives.

According to the report, current global uncertainties, including the “unpredictability of the Trump administration,” make developing sovereign satellite capabilities increasingly vital for monitoring bushfires, forecasting weather and tracking security developments in the Indo-Pacific region.

The author recommends several specific areas for collaboration, including joint development of small-satellite technology, deployment of Korean Positioning System satellite constellation ground stations in Australia, and the potential construction of a South Korean-operated launch site on Australian soil.

Other recommendations include streamlining commercial space collaborations through simplified regulatory procedures and establishing a government-to-government agreement on space launch cooperation with robust security provisions.

“By advancing these initiatives, South Korea and Australia can reinforce their positions as key players in the global space ecosystem,” the report concludes, emphasising that such cooperation would strengthen resilience against counter-space threats while securing national and regional stability.

Picture: Front page of ASPI report