Katherine Bennell-Pegg at Science Alive! Sunday August 4

Katherine Bennell-Pegg

Australian Astronaut and Director of Space Technology, Australian Space Agency

Q & A forum: Sunday August 4, 1:30

In high school, when asked to write down three different career options, Katherine only wrote down one – astronaut – and refused to add any others.

With the encouragement of her parents, Katherine researched what she would need to do to become an astronaut. She worked hard at school, studying Maths, English, Chemistry, Physics, and Economics in her final year. Plus, she took part in a range of extra-curriculars targeting a career in space: aerobatic flying lessons, amateur astronomy, sports and debating.

In 2021, Katherine took a large stride toward her goal of becoming an astronaut. As a dual UK citizen, she was eligible to apply to ESA’s new call for astronauts. Out of 22,500 eligible applicants, she was one of only 25 people to successfully pass all selection stages.

In 2023, Katherine began Basic Astronaut Training at the European Astronaut Centre in Germany. The 39-year-old, along with the five ESA astronaut candidates, is due to graduate in April 2024, qualified for assignment on long-duration missions to the International Space Station and beyond.

‘I want to use this experience to open doors for Australian scientists and engineers to utilise space for their discoveries, to inspire the pursuit of STEM careers, and show all Australians that they too can reach for the stars.’

Upon graduation, Katherine will become Australia’s first female astronaut. She is also the first person to train as an astronaut under the Australian flag.

We are thrilled to present Katherine to our audience of STEM enthusiasts, new and old. Join us at Science Alive!