UNSW Canberra Space
Advancing space safety, security and sustainability
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Challenge
Space is increasingly congested and contested, threatening the safety of satellites essential to Defence, civilian and industry needs. New sensors, smarter systems and skilled people are urgently required to protect satellites from accidental collisions or intentional harm, ensuring a safe, secure and sustainable space domain.
Solution
UNSW Canberra Space has attracted more than AU $ 30m in funding, delivering five satellites across four missions, including M2, the most advanced Australian nano-satellite to date. Its Space Domain Awareness( SDA) research theme has built a global network of optical and RF sensors spanning low-Earth to near-Earth orbit.
A focus on operational systems has trained more than 100 academic and professional staff and 700 students, driving Australia’ s growing space workforce with expertise that transfers directly into government and industry.
Target customers / end-users
• defence partners requiring sovereign SDA and satellite technology
• government agencies shaping national space strategy and operations
• industry partners seeking satellite systems and skilled workforce.
Progress
• four missions and five satellites launched, including M2 SDA-enabled formation flight
• created Australia’ s only onorbit SDA test range, used in international defence exercises
• completed 27 mission studies, leading to the ANCDF’ s partnership with Aerospace Corporation.
Research Centre
15 active collaborations
Multidisciplinary team
Intelligent Systems, Quantum & Space
UNSW Canberra Space develops innovative satellite technology through the Australian National Concurrent Design Facility( ANCDF), advancing global space domain awareness, traffic management and cyber-resilient space systems. By linking research with operations, the centre delivers realworld impact while training Australia’ s next generation of space leaders.