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A new generation of small satellite operators is being created by a NSW satellite control technology company to help operators gain a foothold in the competitive industry.
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Chippendale-based business Saber Astronautics has developed technology that it says can dramatically lower the costs for new space companies seeking to enter the global market.
Saber Astronautics' chief executive Dr Jason Held said their technology, which was developmentally helped by a $40, 825 grant from Jobs for NSW, saw them deliver a commercial spacecraft mission plan for a new South Australian client, Fleet Space Technologies, which is planning to fly 100 Internet of Things (IoT) satellites with Saber’s assistance.
Held said, "Satellites have thousands of components which need to be monitored – any failures can cost millions of dollars in business losses. Our software can predict a satellite’s performance and display it to an operator, allowing companies to monitor and control many satellites with the least effort. This is an enabler for future Australian companies, many of whom may have limited experience in flight."
NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Small Business John Barilaro said the Saber Astronautics technology is a game-changer for sectors like defence and aeronautics, but also some unexpected sectors.
"Saber is a pioneering Sydney company which has developed amazing technology that combines video game design methods and machine learning to control and to monitor a large number of satellites with the least number of people," Minister Barilaro said.
"This incredible technology is helping to position NSW for new business and jobs in the quickly booming small satellite sector. This has many applications for traditional Australian sectors including agriculture and mining. It includes space-based support for the fast growing ‘Internet of Things’ market for connected devices, expected to grow to $6 trillion by 2025.
"It is fantastic to see an innovative NSW start-up working to grow our space industry. Saber will help to create the jobs of the future and show the world – maybe even other worlds – the vital role NSW and Australian technology has to play in this exciting sector."
The investment in the satellite technology is all part of the plan to grow the billion dollar space industry.
Jobs for NSW CEO Karen Borg said, "Space is a $360 billion growth industry and with about 2,000 new satellites expected by 2020 to power a range of new business ideas. Many new operators will need inexpensive but professional operations providing strong opportunities for innovative companies like Saber."
