TelstraSuper is one of a number of investors supporting innovative space travel technology. These unique investments are part of our venture capital investment portfolio, which invests in many different types of projects that are leading innovation around the globe (and even outer space)!

For example, we were an early investor in the SpaceX program that launched the first orbital class rocket that’s capable of re-flight. The Falcon 9 is a reusable, two stage rocket that allows SpaceX to re-use the most expensive parts of the rocket which drives down the cost of space access – plus, by recycling elements of the rocket, there’s less environmental impact*.

At 70 meters high and 3.7 meters in diameter, this nifty rocket is capable of transporting over 4,000kg to Mars. It’s already had more than 120 launches, with 82 landings.

And while you’re dreaming big about future space travel, you might be interested to learn that the technology is now so advanced that NASA selected SpaceX to develop a lunar optimized starship to transport crew between lunar orbit and the surface of the moon as part of NASA’s Artemis program^. 

There are hopes to safely land the first woman and next man on the surface of the moon. The Starship will carry the crew as well as all of the supplies, equipment and science payloads needed for extensive surface exploration. 

Another space rocket example that your super could be helping includes the Australian rocket company Gilmour Space that is developing new capabilities for launching small satellites to space. This Queensland start-up is now one of Australia’s leading space companies pioneering new and innovative hybrid propulsion technologies#. 

The company is one of three that plans to unite to launch a bushfire detection satellite into orbit in 2022, which will be capable of automated bushfire detection and tracking. The satellite analyses images to detect bushfires in real-time, then sends notifications and maps to emergency responders**. 

So, while our personal travel plans might be temporarily halted due to the pandemic, your super could be enabling projects that are literally out of this world.

Not interested in space travel? Perhaps you’d like to read about Australia’s biggest fridge.