Space Machines Company is building the Optimus Platform, the largest single Australian-built commercial spacecraft that will deliver transport and service capabilities in orbit.

Designed to provide servicing and protection for vital in-space infrastructure, the Optimus transport and logistics platform must first pass rigorous test procedures to qualify for the space environment before heading to orbit in early 2024.

In this project, the iLAuNCH Trailblazer brings together cutting-edge space research and infrastructure of The Australian National University (ANU) enabled by the Institute for Space (InSpace), with the design process of Space Machines Company, developing new technology and IP for commercial pathways.

“For the entire history of space flight, we’ve launched our expensive technologically advanced satellites into orbit hoping they will survive for years, but totally unable to refuel or service them if problems occur,” said iLAuNCH Trailblazer Executive Director, Darin Lovett.

“This partnership to develop in-space transportation and logistics services opens a new global market opportunity while setting up enduring partnerships within the Australian space ecosystem.”

This project aims to space qualify the Optimus Platform at TRL 8 for flight readiness through the National Space Test Facility at ANU, the largest space testing infrastructure in Australasia.

“I am thrilled to support the experimental development of such an amazing mission. The Optimus Platform represents a game changer for Australia’s ambitions in space and the National Space Test Facility is at the forefront of this endeavour,” said Eduardo Trifoni, iLAuNCH Project Leader and Director of the National Space Test Facility.

Image: National Space Test Facility at ANU

As an Australian-owned company providing in-space transportation and servicing capabilities with multiple applications such as deployment of payloads to desired orbits, orbit raising, debris removal, repair and servicing and exploration missions, Space Machines Company are on the cusp of changing the face of the global space industry.

“Our business model delivers significant return on investment for satellite operators by providing a service like roadside assistance on Earth, but in orbit which improves the resilience and economics of satellite operations, said George Freney, Co-founder of Space Machines Company.

“The Optimus platform is scalable and adaptable to the market. The iLAuNCH project helps us to mature its design, leveraging National Space Test Facility’s deep expertise in spacecraft prototype testing.”

The iLAuNCH project will showcase Australia’s sovereign capability on increasingly complex space platforms as they evolve, offering broader capacities for access to space

About iLAuNCH

The Australian Government is building new research capabilities, driving commercialisation outcomes and investing in new industry engagement opportunities through the Department of Education’s Trailblazer Universities Program.

The Innovative Launch, Automation, Novel Materials, Communications and Hypersonics (iLAuNCH) Trailblazer is a $180 million program building Australia’s enduring space capability through the commercialisation of projects, a fast-track accelerator, and skills development to build the workforce of the future.

Through this federal program, iLAuNCH will receive $50 million of investment over 4 years, alongside a further $130 million from universities (University of Southern Queensland, The Australian National University, and the University of South Australia), industry partners, and CSIRO. The net economic benefit of the $180 million investment is expected to be $3.6 billion by 2040.

About Space Machines Company

Space Machines Company (SMC) is an Australian company delivering on-orbit servicing and protection of critical space infrastructure through its Orbital Servicing Network. SMC supports mobility, inspection, deorbiting, repair, life extension, and protection capability to satellite customers when and where they need it.