Australian space services company has announced the opening of its new manufacturing facility in the centre of Canberra.
Located at the UNSW Canberra City campus, the new facility will enable the development of the largest ever Australian manufactured space payload, weighing 300kg, which is confirmed for launch this year with SpaceX from Florida.
Skykraft, which is based in the ACT, is currently focusing on the development and deployment of a space-based Air Traffic Management (ATM) service.
According to the company’s statement, the new Canberra manufacturing facility will produce the 200+ satellites that will form the constellation providing the ATM services, with the operating constellation launched during 2023.
“Skykraft’s space-based solution allows real-time communications between air traffic controllers and pilots, allowing for the reduction in separation between aircraft over oceanic airspace, enhancing efficiency and delivering environmental benefits,” Mr Skidmore continued.
“Our satellite constellation will be a world-first, proudly out of Australia.”
The new manufacturing facility was officially opened by Mr Enrico Palermo, the Head of the Australian Space Agency.
“This facility further emphasises the great momentum that’s been fostered since the establishment of the Australian Space Agency and why space is one of six priorities under the Australian Government’s Modern Manufacturing Strategy,” Mr Palermo said.
“When our space sector grows it not only creates opportunities within those space businesses but across a range of industries, which means jobs with all different skillsets.”
The new facility is expected to manufacture have 5 satellites by 30 June 2022 and a further 12 satellites in the 2nd half of the year.
Skykraft anticipates to ramp up production in 2023, with 45 satellites targeted in the 1st half of 2023 and up to 120 in the 2nd half of 2023.
