Inovor Technologies and The Australian National University (ANU) have partnered with the iLAuNCH Trailblazer project to develop a new software-defined radio (SDR) solution that will be onboard all of Inovor’s locally manufactured satellites. The upshot is the prospect of higher data rate transfers and more resilient satellite communications.
To assist Inovor to develop a high data rate radio sub-system, ANU will conduct research and provide simulation models to guide design choices and validate the design at various stages. In parallel, Inovor will develop the prototype hardware and software to support the activities, using the simulation models provided by ANU to qualify the design at critical points.
The prototype hardware and software would include the SDR module capable of space-to-ground links and inter-satellite links. Finally, the SDR module will be integrated into the Inovor Apogee Bus for an on-orbit demonstration of all capabilities.
“Inovor is a pioneering Australian space company,” said iLAuNCH Trailblazer Executive Director, Darin Lovett. “I’ve worked with them for five years now, and witnessed their drive to build sovereign capabilities for the space industry, from star trackers and reaction wheels to entire small satellite buses.”
The Innovative Launch, Automation, Novel Materials, Communications and Hypersonics (iLAuNCH) Trailblazer is a government-funded AUD180 million program designed to build an enduring Australian space capability through the commercialisation of projects, a fast-track accelerator, and skills development.
“This project under the iLAuNCH partnership will see ANU and Inovor build a satellite-based Software Defined Radio (SDR) and a subsequent launch into space to demonstrate critical space-flight heritage, paving the way for exports,” added Lovett.
100% Australian-owned Inovor Technologies will control the manufacturing process to ensure quality, security, and the timely delivery of their satellites.
“These SDRs are being designed to resist the extreme temperatures and radiation levels of space and will be able to position satellites more accurately post-launch and feed control information to the onboard maneuvering system,” said Inovor CEO and Founder, Matthew Tetlow.
“All these critical components, will be crafted within our facilities, to establish a sovereign edge, reinforcing our ability to maximise mission assurance.”
