The Andy Thomas Space Foundation (ATSF) has confirmed it will again back Monash University’s National Indigenous Space Academy (NISA), sending an Indigenous STEM student on an immersive 10-week mentorship straight into the heart of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California.
For ATSF, this marks the second consecutive year supporting NISA—a direct investment in building pathways for First Nations scientists and engineers to collaborate on mission design, advanced robotics, and deep-space research.
An Inspiring Journey to JPL
Taking up the challenge this year is Alaxandrea O’Brien, a proud Dulgubarra-Mamu and Jirrbal woman studying at the University of Western Australia. O’Brien was awarded the ATSF and NISA Women’s Leadership Scholarship to back her placement at JPL.
“To receive the Andy Thomas Women’s Leadership Sponsorship means more than words could capture for me,” O’Brien said. “It’s opened my eyes to the monumental impact that Australia has had and continues to have in space.”
Reflecting on her roots and the road ahead, O’Brien underscored the power of representation for mob across regional communities:
“To continue my journey in this way means that the little girl from the Kimberley made it, and more than that it means that other little girls from similar circumstances can be bold and brave in following their dreams too.”
Connecting Culture with Deep Space
Founded in 2023 by Professor Christopher Lawrence, Professor of Practice in Space Innovation and Security Capabilities at Monash Engineering, NISA blends high-level technical exposure with cultural grounding. Supported by the Australian Space Agency alongside partners like CSIRO, Boeing, and ATSF, the initiative ensures First Nations students are not just participants, but leaders in Australia’s high-tech future.
“Showing students what is possible can be the first step towards a career in STEM,” Professor Lawrence noted.
“The National Indigenous Space Academy gives First Nations students the opportunity to experience the space sector firsthand, build connections and see themselves in it.”
ATSF CEO Darcey Watson agreed, pointing out that lifting up young voices creates momentum far beyond a single placement:
“Sponsoring a National Indigenous Space Academy student is more than supporting a single journey – it’s helping launch a leader whose story will inspire generations to come,” Watson said.
“When we lift up these leaders, we help launch a future where every perspective has the power to reach the stars.”
Applications for the 2027 NISA intake will open shortly via the official NISA portal.
