AAO’s innovative satellite imaging technology wins 2026 Australian Good Design Award – Best in Class

Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) at Macquarie University has received a 2026 Australian Good Design Award – Best in Class in the Concept Design category for the innovative optical system, OWL (Omnidirectional Wide-angle Locator).

Tracking fast-moving objects in space presents a significant challenge for satellites. Conventional approaches often require the spacecraft itself to manoeuvre to redirect its camera, consuming fuel and potentially limiting mission life.

OWL offers a different approach. By using lightweight movable mirrors to rapidly redirect a camera’s view without moving the entire spacecraft, the technology has the potential to reduce fuel consumption, mechanical complexity and operational costs, while supporting longer and more capable missions.

As Earth’s orbit becomes increasingly crowded, OWL offers promising applications in earth observation, space monitoring and space domain awareness, where rapid and flexible observation capabilities are increasingly important.

Developed by AAO in collaboration with design partner Particle Design Studio, OWL has progressed from an initial concept to a working prototype, demonstrating how advanced optical engineering can address practical challenges in the space industry.

Reflecting on the development process, Timothy Chin, AAO Senior Mechanical Engineer, said:

“The most challenging part of developing OWL was characterising and refining the initial prototype. The mechanism was simple in concept but complex in execution, and the more we pushed the design, the more we learned about its strengths and limitations. With a lot of teamwork, we developed a more reliable design with plenty of potential still to explore.”

The Australian Good Design Awards are Australia’s longest-running international design awards, recognising excellence in design, innovation and impact. The Awards Jury commented:

“The collaboration between Australian Astronomical Optics and Particle Design Studio has produced something that is both scientifically serious and beautifully designed.”

Learn more about OWL: https://good-design.org/projects/omnidirectional-wide-angle-locator-owl/