US Space Force chief tours Exmouth’s Learmonth Solar Observatory

Exmouth’s Learmonth Solar Observatory received a special visitor recently when the head of the US Space Force toured the facility.

The Chief of Space Operations General John W. Raymond toured Learmonth Solar Observatory, a facility jointly operated by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology and the US Air Force which tracks and monitors solar activity on March 24.

General Raymond also visited Harold E. Holt Naval Communication Station and was accompanied on the visit by US Consul General David Gainer.

It is the most senior visit by the USSF to WA since the force was established in December 2019.

Gen. Raymond said the US and Australia had cooperated on space exploration and research for more than 60 years.

“Together we are ensuring a safe and secure domain for all,” he said.

“Space is essential to our security and prosperity and the world-class facilities at Exmouth provide valuable and unique space surveillance.”

“The United States continues to be impressed by WA’s space capabilities, including our multiple partnerships in Exmouth where Americans and Australians work side by side to benefit our people and our region,” Mr Gainer said.

Gen. Raymond and Mr Gainer also met Shire of Exmouth representatives and thanked the town for its hospitality.