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A new communications antenna unveiled at the University of Tasmania’s Greenhill Observatory will support space missions from the ground and lessen the likelihood of spacecraft collisions.
The $2 million antenna was created in collaboration with the Australian Space Agency and funded by the University and the Australian Government’s Space Infrastructure Fund (SIF).
The project aims to advance national space infrastructure and foster the development of the country’s space industry.
With the help of this innovative infrastructure, regional and international partners will be able to carry out hitherto unimaginable operations in the southern skies.
School of Natural Sciences Dean Simon Ellingsen said space-to-earth communications would be provided by the new 7.3-meter for low-earth-orbit satellites.
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“In the past, we have only been able to listen to transmissions from spacecraft but now we are able to transmit messages through radio frequency communications to spacecraft, sending commands as well as receiving data,” Ellingsen said.
The advancement of space domain awareness, which enables ground operators to track spacecraft like satellites and trash in orbit, depends on the new infrastructure.
“Globally, satellites are being launched into space at an increasing rate. To launch safely and to keep the assets safe once they are in orbit, we need to know where the stuff already up there is,” Ellingsen added.
The development of the new infrastructure is necessary for the evolution of space domain awareness, which enables ground operators to track spacecraft like satellites and debris in orbit.
“Australia is deeply experienced in spacecraft tracking and communications, and our geographical advantages provide an added boost to this capability. University of Tasmania’s upgraded facilities will further advance Australia’s expertise in this area and open doors to exciting new research and commercial partnerships,” Palermo said.
“Space technology, like satellites, is critical in supporting our everyday life and national wellbeing, and the new antenna will track and protect vital technology in space that we rely on here on Earth.”
You may also want to read: Australia partners with Ventia to upgrade defence communications system (commsroom.co)
Source: Asia-Pacific Defence Reporter
Jaw de Guzman is the content producer for Comms Room, a knowledge platform and website aimed at assisting the communications industry and its professionals.
