Australia Day Ambassador
Michael West
Ambassador for Wentworth Shire Council
Michael West has degrees in Aerospace Engineering and Science, majoring in Physics and Geophysics, from the University of Sydney and has been involved in various space projects in Australia. In 2001, he joined a team of Australian researchers and NASA experts who investigated Mars-like sites in outback Australia where a Mars simulation facility is being established to assist with astronaut training in the future.
Michael has designed experiments that have been launched aboard surface to air missiles from the Woomera Rocket Range and has worked in the US on the analysis of radio signals received from the Pioneer 10 spacecraft. He has also worked on a Canadian Space Agency proposal for a robotic mission to explore the moons of Mars.
A NSW finalist in the 2006 Young Australian of the Year Awards, Michael is currently completing PhD studies at the Australian National University in Canberra. He is working on next generation propulsion systems for spacecraft that may one day propel human beings to the Moon, Mars and beyond. Michael has presented at several international aerospace conferences and frequently gives seminars and lectures on space exploration to the general public and school students. He is also involved with various other space education and outreach activities throughout Australia.
Michael hopes to see Australia have a greater role in future space exploration activities and believes that it complements the spirit of discovery, exploration and innovation that have been a feature of our nation’s history.
