It was a true celebration of discovery as Deputy Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Matt Buckley and the first Australian to go to space with NASA, Paul Scully-Power, greeted aspiring young Australian students soon to embark on astronaut training in the United States. 

Five Australian high school students and one educator were awarded the 2026 Astronaut Al Worden Endeavour Scholarship, which will see them join young people and teachers from 11 countries around the world to fly to the US Space and Rocket Center Space Camp Huntsville, Alabama, in July next year.

Rear Admiral Buckley said the cohort will form ‘Mission Team Australia’ to connect with other national teams from around the world, building friendships and fostering the kind of global collaboration that defines the future of STEM.

“The Endeavour scholarship is a program that captures the very essence of exploration, innovation and international collaboration,” Rear Admiral Buckley said.

However, the Deputy Chief of Navy was quick to point out the esteemed honour being bestowed on the students was not all just about science, but learning to act as future ambassadors of Australian innovation. 

“This program is not just about rockets and robotics – it’s about challenging the next generation to think boldly, to lead with purpose, and explore without limits,” Rear Admiral Buckley said.

“Whether they go on to navigate the oceans or reach for the stars, I am sure they will carry with them the values that underpin both science and service, integrity, courage and excellence.” 

'This program is not just about rockets and robotics – it’s about challenging the next generation to think boldly, to lead with purpose, and explore without limits.'

The winners also received a special message from the Australian Space Agency’s first Australian astronaut, Katherine Bennell-Pegg, who challenged them to work beyond their comfort zones, and work together in the pursuit of excellence. 

“Seize the opportunity, absorb the knowledge that you can, ask questions, try new things that scare you, and, most importantly, get to know each other because space is the ultimate team sport,” Ms Bennell-Pegg said. 

She encouraged them to embrace critical thinking, noting that as part of an international program, their generation will shape Australia’s future in space.

“You get to work at the forefront of discovery, of solving the problems the world needs solved, united with others from around the world who want to also learn and explore a new space to benefit humanity and our planet,” Ms Bennell-Pegg said.

Since its inception, only 120 students and 30 educators from 11 countries have received the award, sponsored by Kallman Worldwide, the corporation responsible for American participation in global air, land and maritime technology shows.

Development Director for the Endeavour Scholarship and Kallman Worldwide Vice President Peter McKenna said they created the award to focus efforts on the needs of global industry workforce issues that will inspire young people in pursuing careers in the maritime, aerospace and defence sectors. 

“No nation can do it alone, but if we work together in harmony, with a shared vision, no forces of nature can stand in our way,” Mr McKenna said.

2026 Endeavour Scholarship winners

Students

Anna Alfred – Blacktown Girls High School (NSW)

Cooper Brooke – Kardinia International College, Geelong (Victoria)

Elisha Dabbagh – Good Samaritan Catholic College, Hinchinbrook (NSW)

Emily Lamberth – Clarence Valley Anglican School, Clarenza (NSW)

Finlay Hunt – The Hamilton and Alexandra College, Hamilton (Victoria)

Mission Team Leader (Teacher)

Pat Hagan – Iona College, Geelong (Victoria)