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 into orbit next year as part of an upcoming Gilmour Space satellite mission.
The space-qualified Malya payload consists of two thermal infrared cameras and an edge computer from Sydney-based tech company Spiral Blue.
AAO cut years off the typical space-ready production timeline by repurposing the ground-based camera technology for space applications.
“By uplifting an off-the-shelf camera for use in space, we have been able to produce a working system much faster than building a space-grade camera from scratch,” says Associate Professor Lee Spitler, Head of Space Projects at AAO.
The project taps into instrument expertise developed over fifty years by AAO, which designs and constructs highly specialised precision telescope components for astronomy observatory clients across Australia and the Pacific, Europe, Asia and Americas.
Kody Cook, Head of Satellites at Gilmour Space, says, “This all-Australian mission showcases the growing capabilities of our local space industry, from Gilmour’s rocket and satellite to AAO’s payload and Spiral Blue’s computer.”
The Malya camera system is designed to communicate with the satellite’s computer, which will direct it to capture images of specific targets. Its dual-camera setup allows for photographing larger regions of interest, such as areas of the Earth.
Named for the Dharug and Dharawal word for the diamond python (which has thermal infrared sensing capabilities) the Malya camera will bring heat-detecting technology to space-based observations.
Potential applications for the Malya thermal camera include water quality monitoring, bushfire detection, weather monitoring, Earth observation, and defence.
The partnership between these three Australian companies – AAO, Gilmour Space and Spiral Blue – demonstrates a successful collaboration between academic institutions and industry in creating innovative space technologies for commercial applications.
The delivery of the Malya payload also coincides with National Science Week, highlighting the achievements of Australian scientists and engineers in space technology development.
Photo credit: Urs Klauser /AAO, Macquarie University.
