Australia's First Astronaut

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The Scully-Power name ascended to new heights when Paul Desmond Scully-Power, born in 1944 as the son of Thomas Scully-Power, a former member of the Royal Australian Air Force, became Australia's first astronaut. His journey into space represents a remarkable chapter in the family's history, embodying the pioneering spirit inherent in both the Scully and Power lineages.

In his twenties, Paul moved to the United States after being selected as a Royal Australian Navy exchange scientist for the US Navy. After completing the exchange program and spending two short years back in Australia, he was offered a position at the US Navy Underwater Systems Center in New London, Connecticut, prompting his family’s return to the United States in 1977.

As the first foreign Principal Investigator for NASA, Paul was invited to join the team of instructors at the Astronaut Office in Houston, Texas. He was subsequently offered a flight position on the thirteenth mission of the Space Shuttle Challenger, which was the first shuttle flight dedicated to the scientific exploration of Earth from space.

Prior to this mission, oceanography from space was limited to satellite-based remote sensing technologies. While valuable, these satellites lacked the critical element of human observation. Dr Scully-Power’s extensive background in oceanographic research made him an ideal candidate to conduct visual observations. His work during the mission provided critical insights into ocean dynamics with far-reaching implications for defence, intelligence, and national security.

During their time in the United States, the Scully-Power family settled in the New England town of Mystic, Connecticut, marking a pivotal moment in their legacy. In 1982, Paul Scully-Power became a dual Australian/US citizen and embarked on the intensive training that would lead him to join the ranks of the world’s elite astronauts.

In October 1984, Paul flew aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger on mission STS-41G, marking a significant milestone for both Australia and the Scully-Power family. His achievements in space exploration, oceanography, and defence technology have garnered international acclaim, establishing the Scully-Power name as synonymous with innovation in space technologies, defence, intelligence and national security.

Paul's accomplishments reflect the values passed down by his ancestors. His career not only honours the Scully and Power legacies but also paves the way for future generations to make meaningful contributions to the world.