Space Machines Company (SMC), a leading player in Australian in-space servicing, has purchased Inovor Technologies’ Star Tracker, a celestial navigation system, for integration into its Orbital Servicing Vehicle, Optimus.
In a media release, SMC said the Star Tracker will enhance the navigation capabilities of Optimus, which will provide transportation and other in-space services following its launch on the SpaceX Transporter-10 in early 2024.
Developed by space technology manufacturer Inovor Technologies, the Star Tracker is designed to precisely determine the spacecraft’s orientation in space by relying on celestial objects, particularly stars.
Dr Matthew Tetlow, founder and CEO of Inovor Technologies, said the partnership demonstrates the company’s commitment to fostering advanced manufacturing capabilities within Australia and showcases the synergy between leading companies in the industry.
“Our Star tracker’s high-precision, low-power attitude sensor designed and manufactured in-house provides unparalleled accuracy by precisely determining the spacecraft’s orientation. It provides fully autonomous attitude determination in a compact form factor,” Tetlow said.
The partnership with Inovor Technologies is part of SMC’s efforts to push the boundaries of space technology. It also underscores the company’s dedication to leveraging local Australian expertise.
“This partnership marks an important moment for the advancement of Australia’s space industry. Working closely with leading local space pioneers like Inovor Technologies will not only generate world-leading space exploration technologies driven by enhanced accuracy and a reliable navigation system but will facilitate a new standard for local collaboration that defines the future of Australia’s space industry,” said Rajat Kulshrestha, Space Machines Company’s co-founder and CEO.
Space Machines Company is an Australian company that delivers on-orbit servicing and protection of critical infrastructure through its Orbital Servicing Network. The company offers a wide range of services, including mobility, inspection, deorbiting, repair, life extension, and protection capability to satellite customers when and where they need it.
