Conference on space technology coming to Perth

The upcoming Indo-Pacific Space and Earth Conference, scheduled for 23–24 October 2023 at the Pan Pacific Hotel, Perth, is set to showcase the role of space technology and robotics for Earth industries, including the mining industry. Supported by the Government of Western Australia, it will bring together over 80 global experts, industry leaders and innovators, shedding light on how space-enabled technologies are reshaping the future of mining — driving efficiency, sustainability and safety.

The mining sector in the Indo-Pacific region is at the heart of economic development, providing valuable resources essential for various industries worldwide. Yet, this industry faces multifaceted challenges, including resource exploration, environmental concerns and safety management. Space technology has emerged as a catalyst for transformative change.

IPSEC 2023 will also host a dedicated track focused on the symbiotic relationship between space technology and robotics. This track will delve into groundbreaking advancements, collaborative projects and the future of robotics applications in space exploration, earth sciences and beyond.

Space technology and mining

Chris Eriksen, General Manager of Technology and Information Management from Atlas Iron, will be sitting on a panel discussing ‘Autonomous Frontiers: Pioneering the future of industries’.

Other distinguished speakers, such as Dr Megan Clark AC, Chair of the Australian Space Agency Advisory Board; Jason Crusan, Vice President, New Energy Solutions of Woodside Energy; and Linda Dawson, Deputy Director General, WA Government, Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation will share their expertise and experiences during a panel session on ‘The intersect between space and on-Earth technologies’.

Discussions will include how space technology assists with resource exploration, environmental monitoring, safety management, and efficiency and sustainability.

Robotics in space

The integration of robotics into space missions has revolutionised our capacity for scientific discovery, resource utilisation and exploration beyond our planet. Space robots have become indispensable tools for studying distant celestial bodies, maintaining and repairing satellites, and supporting astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS).

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from NASA scientists, industry pioneers and researchers who have been at the forefront of developing robotics solutions for space missions. This includes the panel session: ‘Robonomics: Shaping a cross-sector future of productivity, profitability, safety and sustainability’.

The event offers an impressive line-up of speakers, including James Free, Associate Administrator for Exploration Systems Development – NASA; Dr Roger Lawes, Principal Research Scientist at CSIRO Agriculture Flagship and Leader of Digital Decisions (Agriculture), CSIRO; Enrico Palermo, Head of the Australian Space Agency; and Jonathan Hung, Executive Chairman, Singapore Space and Technology Limited.

Tickets and registration

Tickets start from $150 for the welcome reception, $799 for a one-day pass and $999 for the full two-day conference. Attendees can secure their spot by visiting www.spaceandearthconference.com.

Image credit: iStock.com/johan63