Six undergraduate students from across Australia have come to ANU to see what it is like to work in the growing space technology industry.

The students are undertaking research projects involving optics, engineering, material science and computer science at the ANU Advanced Instrumentation Technology Centre (AITC).

Third year mechanical engineering student Elliot Thorn has travelled from Melbourne to work on a system that will track man-made space debris as it orbits the earth.

"I've always had an interest in space, but I never thought I would end up in a place like this. Everything here is totally fascinating. I am even having trouble sleeping at night because I am so excited," he said.

Northrop Grumman, a global security company, has supported four of the students through their Global Externship Program.

"We are delighted to provide these scholarships and give students access to Northrop Grumman space experts in Australia and the U.S.," said Ian Irving, chief executive for Northrop Grumman Australia.

“Australia has a growing and exciting space industry and as part of our strong support to science, technology, engineering and math in Australia, we hope that these students will receive the tools to become future industry leaders."

Aerospace engineering student, Shatirsingh (Ishraj) Inderjeet, also from Melbourne, is working on the exciting new field of CubeSat development. CubeSat's are tiny satellites, measuring 10 cm by 10 cm that could be used as a more cost-effective way of undertaking astronomy research in space.

"As this work has the potential to be part of future mission, I am now one step closer to being in space myself," Ishraj said.

Partnerships between universities and industry, such as the relationship with Northrop Grumman, are important in expanding Australia's space technology capabilities.

"Northrop Grumman’s support makes it possible for students to take advantage of the facilities and expertise at the AITC,” said Dr Naomi Mathers, industry liaison engineer, ANU Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics. 

“Together we are giving our best and brightest the hands-on experience they need to prepare them for industry.”