Space Domain Awareness
Our approach to Space Domain Awarenss (SDA) provides cost effective, comprehensive, persistent surveillance of the space environment over the entire Australian continent. Our technology can detect, characterise and maintain custody of thousands of Resident Space Objects (RSOs) at once, across an unprecedented volume of space. As part of an ensemble approach to SDA and influence, our capability can be a force multiplier by queuing sensors and effectors with more limited fields of regard or range limitations.
The technology and techniques applied to achieve this impact were developed over 10 years of MWA telescope operations at CIRA. In the commissioning phase of the MWA, as a proof of concept, observations were carried out that detected the ISS using a passive radar technique. Over the course of the last decade, FM reflections from much smaller satellites were detected by the MWA telescope, and various students here at CIRA by developing and refining those passive techniques.
Nova Systems Partnership
In collaboration with Nova Systems, an Australian owned and controlled engineering services and technology solutions company, we have constructed and operate a Multi-function Space Domain Awareness System at the Nova Space Precinct at Peterborough, South Australia.
Portable SDA
In 2020, with the support of a grant from the WA Defence Science Centre, we developed a prototype portable antenna array to monitor and track space-based objects and satellites – using radio astronomy techniques and technology. In 2023, this project won the Curtinnovation Science & Engineering Award.
Impact Case Study
Our Portable SDA system translates the skills and technology from radio astronomy into applications for wider industry. The project also resulted in the establishment of a local supply chain for the sensor hardware, supporting the WA manufacturing industry to diversify its customer base.