Aussie schoolkids could play a part in the nation’s first mission to the moon by naming a groundbreaking Australian-made lunar rover.

The Australian Space Agency has launched a competition to name the yet-to-be-designed rover, which could land on the moon as early as 2026.

The agency’s partner NASA hopes to extract oxygen from soil the rover collects from the moon’s surface; a key step in setting up a permanent lunar base.

Enrico Palermo, head of the Australian Space Agency, says the future Artemis mission will help develop skills in vital technologies such as robotics and inspire more people to study STEM.

“We’re looking for names that really capture Aussie ingenuity, Aussie spirit; something that’s creative and inspirational” he said.

The naming contest opened to schools and individuals on Tuesday and entries will close on October 20.

The four best suggestions will be shortlisted and go to a public vote before the winner is announced on December 6.

Entries can be submitted via the Australian Space Agency’s website.

Jacob Shteyman
(Australian Associated Press)