Simon Ellingsen

Simon Ellingsen is a Professor and Executive Director of the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) at The University of Western Australia. His research focuses on massive star formation, galactic structure, and interstellar masers using radio astronomy techniques. Professor Ellingsen uses continental-scale radio telescope arrays to make precise measurements of the Milky Way's structure and scale, including pioneering work on the far-side of the Galactic Center.

Research areas include:

• Massive star formation through interstellar maser studies
• 3D mapping of the Milky Way's structure
• Development of space domain awareness capabilities
• Applications of Very Long Baseline Interferometry

Current projects include 'The Dark-side of the Milky Way' ARC Discovery Project and collaborations with defense partners to develop sovereign space domain awareness capabilities. He chairs Astronomy Australia Limited's Industry Engagement Advisory Committee and Working Group 3.4 for the National Committee for Astronomy Decadal Plan 2026-2035.