Willunga Primary School students joined others from across the state in Adelaide last week for the 2023 Kids in Space program at Lot Fourteen.

Run by Andy Thomas Space Foundation and Australian Space Agency, the national program is a space-themed, technology-based, design thinking project delivered by education technology company, Makers Empire.

More than 5000 students across Australia are involved in the space education program this year, which includes participating schools receiving space-themed professional development days for teachers, a 3D printer and a custom space-themed challenge course for students.

The South Australian event involved around 70 primary school students from eight schools that presented their innovations and designs to judges and toured the Australian Space Discovery Centre.

Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science Susan Close says it is fantastic to see initiatives such as Kids in Space capture the interest of students and spark a curiosity in STEM-related study and careers from a young age.

“Home to the Australian Space Agency, Australian Mission Control Centre and more than 100 space-related organisations, South Australia has become a beacon for space activity offering a range of exciting career opportunities for aspiring space leaders.

“We look forward to welcoming students across the country to the Kids in Space national showcase in Adelaide later this year, to experience this first-hand.”