Our researchers have built a pocket-sized satellite, known as a CubeSat, which is helping to boost Australia’s position as a contender in the new space race.
A typical CubeSat weighs one to three kilograms, compared to a traditional satellite which can weigh up to seven tonnes.
The weight saving can translate to launch cost savings in the billions of dollars and the miniature size means a CubeSat can hitch a ride on a rocket with a larger satellite.
Curtin’s CubeSat will be launched into orbit from a resupply rocket destined for the International Space Station.
The mission will help contribute to the Australian government’s larger mission to boost the nation’s space industry, which includes sending Australian astronauts to the Moon.
It will also further the development of ‘mini-sat’ technology and our ability to explore deep space.
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