Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) at Macquarie University in Sydney has supplied its Malya thermal imaging camera system to Queensland-based Gilmour Space Technologies. The camera is scheduled to be launched into orbit next year as part of an upcoming Gilmour Space satellite mission.
The space-worthy Malya payload includes two thermal infrared cameras and an edge computer from Sydney-based technology company Spiral Blue.
By repurposing ground-based camera technology for space applications, AAO has been able to shave years off the typical production time for space-ready devices.
“By refining a commercially available camera for use in space, we were able to produce a working system much faster than if we had built a space-grade camera from scratch,” said Lee Spitler, AAO’s space projects manager.
The project draws on AAO’s more than 50 years of instrumentation experience designing and constructing highly specialized precision telescope components for its astronomy customers, including observatories in Australia and the Pacific, Europe, Asia and the Americas.
“This all-Australian mission demonstrates the growing capabilities of our local space industry, from Gilmour’s rocket and satellites to AAO’s payload and Spiral Blue’s computer,” said Kody Cook, head of satellite operations at Gilmour.
Malya’s camera system is designed to communicate with the satellite’s computer and instruct it to take pictures of specific targets. The dual camera allows it to photograph larger regions of interest, such as parts of the Earth.
Potential applications for the Malya thermal imaging camera include bushfire detection, earth observation and defense.
The partnership between AAO, Gilmour Space Technologies and Spiral Blue is an example of successful collaboration between academic institutions and industry in developing innovative space technologies for commercial applications.
The delivery of the Malya payload also coincides with National Science Week, which highlights the achievements of Australian scientists and engineers in developing space technologies.
