Leaders in Scientific Instrumentation and Research
Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) is a recognised world leader in innovative scientific instrumentation, software and research.
Delivering excellence and innovation
Expertise Perfected Over Time
Built upon the institutional knowledge and individual experiences gained through decades developing advanced instrumentation for astronomy, we have delivered over 100 projects since 1974 encompassing a broad engineering skill base:
- bulk optics
- micro-optics
- fibre-optics
- photonics
- optomechanics
- mechatronics and control systems
- sensors and detectors
- cryogenics
- software control systems
- data management
Pushing the boundaries of technology
Our Projects
AAO-Macquarie is actively involved in instrument design and building, software design and development, and data management and service development, with about half a century of experience.
Latest News
Don't miss what's happening at AAO
30
Jun
25
AAO data experts powering the world’s largest sky survey
A team of data experts from Australian Astronomical Optics at Macquarie have joined a global effort to process a cosmic data deluge as a new…
30
May
25
AAO’s Head of Space Projects named Australia’s Space Scientist of the Year 2025
Associate Professor Lee Spitler, Head of Space Projects at Australian Astronomical Optics, Macquarie University, was last night named Space Scientist of the Year in the…
07
May
25
AAO Strategic Plan 2025-2034 launch puts plan into play
Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) marked a significant milestone on April 29 with the launch of its 2025-2034 Strategic Plan titled ‘Bridging Eras’ — a vision…
06
Jan
25
Space gets clearer: multi-million dollar telescope upgrade underway
A major international astronomy project led by Australian Astronomical Optics at Macquarie University (AAO-MQ) has now passed a crucial milestone in its mission to enhance…
06
Dec
24
AAO celebrates 50 years Bridging Eras: Reflecting on a Legacy, Envisioning a Bright Future
The Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) celebrated 50 years of groundbreaking contributions to the world of astronomy on Monday (2 December) at Macquarie University. The milestone…
19
Aug
24
AAO delivers space-qualified camera to Gilmour
Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) at Macquarie University has delivered its Malya thermal camera system to Queensland-based Gilmour Space Technologies. The camera is scheduled for launch…
27
May
24
AAO RDS Hosts Successful IVOA Interoperability Meeting 2024 at Macquarie University
The International Virtual Observatory Alliance (IVOA) Interoperability meeting 2024 was successfully held at Macquarie University’s Wallumattagal Campus from 19 May to 24 May 2024. Hosted…
21
May
24
AAO-Macquarie Secures $1.16 Million Funding from NSW Government’s NCRIS Support Program
The Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) at Macquarie University has been awarded $1.169 million in funding from the highly competitive NSW Government’s National Collaborative Research Infrastructure…
18
Dec
23
AAO Leads the Gemini North Adaptive Optics Bench Project
The Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) led an international consortium which won a A$15 million international contract to lead the design and construction of adaptive optics…
11
Dec
23
AAO participated in the 16th Australian Space Forum 2023
The Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) – Macquarie proudly participated in the 16th Australian Space Forum hosted by the Andy Thomas Space Foundation on 6th December…
30
Jun
23
AAO technology is going to the Moon
Australian Astronomical Optics – Macquarie (AAO) at Macquarie University will build a new optical multi-beam laser collimator that will land on the moon as a…
03
Feb
23
GHOST spectrograph delivered to US observatory
GHOST Instrument Commissioned at Gemini South Observatory The GHOST instrument been successfully commissioned on the Gemini South Telescope, one of the world’s most powerful optical…
15
Jan
23
AAO to build thermal imager for Gilmour space
AAO to build thermal imager for Gilmour Space AAO has announced a new partnership with Gilmour Space Technologies, to design and build a new sovereign…
20
Jun
21
AAO delivers Fibre Positioners to Germany
Designed and built by AAO, the AESOP (Australian-European Southern Observatory Positioner) arrived in Potsdam, Germany in late 2021. AESOP is an optical fibre positioner unit…
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Diversity Goals
AAO-MQ is committed to creating a working environment and culture that is inclusive and provides equal opportunities, irrespective of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, culture and origin.
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