10. Question No. 10—SpaceSAM UFFINDELL (National—Tauranga) to the Minister for SpaceQuestion No. 10—Space10. SAM UFFINDELL (National—Tauranga) to the Minister for Space: What recent announcement has she made in her Space portfolio?Hon JUDITH COLLINS (Minister for Space): Yesterday—[Interruption]SPEAKER: Hang on. At least start with a little bit of reasonable behaviour.Hon JUDITH COLLINS: There's so much excitement isn't there? Wait till they're calm. Thank you Mr Speaker. Well yesterday the Prime Minister and I announced the establishment of the Prime Minister's two new prizes for space. These will be annual awards to recognise the innovative and rising talent in New Zealand's growing space sector. There will be two prizes: one prize of $100000 will be awarded to someone who has demonstrated outstanding achievement and contribution to the New Zealand space sector and a further prize will be awarded to a student in years 12 or 13. The inaugural winner will receive a trip to visit Rocket Lab space facilities both here in New Zealand and in the United States. Space is a vast field with huge potential for the New Zealand economy. Encouraging young people into this exciting area is good for them and it's good for the country—and by the way the world.Sam Uffindell: How will this stimulate growth in the sector?Hon JUDITH COLLINS: Woah what an excellent question! These awards raise the profile and prestige of the New Zealand space sector. They showcase the high-calibre individuals working in our space sector including academic researchers and industry professionals and they will inspire the next generation of innovative and talented people to pursue a career in space. There is a great opportunity for New Zealand to capture an even larger share of a sector projected to reach—and wait for this—US$1 trillion by 2040.Sam Uffindell: How does this announcement tie in with other recent announcements she has made?Hon JUDITH COLLINS: Well yesterday's announcement is just one announcement among others that I have made to show our commitment and aspiration for space. On 31 January I welcomed an agreement with Australia that will benefit New Zealand researchers to participate in collaborative research projects through Australia's SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre. On 5 March together with climate change Minister the Hon Simon Watts I welcomed the successful launch of MethaneSAT a state-of-the-art satellite designed to accurately detect methane emissions and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. Just last week we announced New Zealand's research being sent to the International Space Station. It's so exciting.Sam Uffindell: What is her vision for the portfolio?Hon JUDITH COLLINS: I want to see space and aerospace as key contributors to New Zealand's economy active participation across manufacturing spacecraft being launched and the use of aerospace-enabled data—all supported by a robust regulatory regime that keeps pace with innovation. Next month I will attend the Space Symposium in Colorado which will provide an opportunity to hear from representatives of the international space community and you can be sure I will be promoting New Zealand's space sector to everyone.SPEAKER: Sorry I'm just composing myself. I was tempted to make a comment but I won't. Well I will: so is it from Crusher" to "Rocket" now or what?"