Southland Teen Wins $50K From PM's Space Prize

Southland teen wins $50K from PM's Space Prize

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Minister of Space Judith Collins present the Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Student Endeavour to Southland Girl’s High School student Sophie Ineson, 17, at Parliament last night. PHOTO: SUPPLIED Southland schoolgirl Sophie Ineson is reaching for the stars after being awarded a Prime Minister’s Space Prize this week.

The talented Invercargill student shooting for the stars

Last night at Parliament the Prime Minister's Space Prizes were presented. These prizes were established to recognise the talented people working in space and aviation and also to inspire younger people to get into the industry. And it seems like it's working, Sophie Ineson, a Year 12 student from Southland Girls' High School won the prize for Student Endeavour, for her project to design better wound care for astronauts. Sophie's prize is NZ$50,…

Space Achievers Awarded PM’s Space Prizes

As winners of the 2025 Prime Minister’s Space Prizes, Stefan Powell will receive $100,000 and Sophie Ineson will receive $50,000 which is intended to support tertiary education.

Space achievers awarded PM’s space prizes

Co-founder and CEO of Dawn Aerospace Stefan Powell and Southland schoolgirl Sophie Ineson are this year’s recipients of the Prime Minister’s Space Prizes. “These prizes highlight the extraordinary talent and vision driving our space industry forward today and celebrate the next generation,” Mr Luxon says. “Stefan and Dawn Aerospace have made a remarkable impact on our space industry. Stefan’s leadership shows how innovation and excellence in thi…

Distinguished Undergraduate Award Recipients Announced by USRA

The Universities Space Research Association (USRA) has released the names of the 2025 Distinguished Undergraduate Award winners—exceptional students recognized for their talent and potential in advancing space science, engineering, and technology.“The recipients of this award inspire us all with their dedication and accomplishments thus far.” Dr. Elsayed Talaat, USRAThe USRA Distinguished Undergraduate Awards honor students who exemplify academi…

Southland Student Wins PM’s 2025 Science Prize

Southland Girls’ High School Year 12 student Sophie Ineson is this year’s recipient of the Prime Minister’s Space Prize for student endeavour and will receive $50,000 to support her tertiary education, Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds says.“This is a wonderful achievement. Congratulations to Sophie – she has done herself, and Invercargill and Southland proud.“I have followed Sophie’s endeavours over several years and have been impressed with her p…