Australian of the Year

Dr Muhammad Akbar Hussain is a general medical practitioner and astronomer whose career spans paediatrics, engineering, scientific research, entrepreneurship and public education. 

After moving to Adelaide in 2016, Akbar built Australia’s first mobile astronomical observatory for remote astronomy outreach and identified its application in space situational awareness. This led him to establish the Southern Cross Outback Observatories Project, an independent, self-funded international collaboration aiming to create a national debris tracking network and AI ready data systems. 

A pioneer in extreme environmental technologies, Akbar holds multiple U.S. patents for Mars habitat design, hybrid power generation and space debris mitigation, contributing to Australia’s presence in space science. Akbar’s observatory initiatives, including projects overseas, have inspired Australian students to pursue STEM careers. 

Akbar applies a human-centred philosophy to all his work. He is developing technologies that enhance safety in both future space missions and real-world environments, while encouraging the next generation of innovators.