19 April 2024 — Adelaide-based Space Machines Company confirms that Australia’s largest private satellite, Optimus, is not lost in space, despite initial communication challenges.
Optimus, an orbital service vehicle designed to service and refuel other satellites, was successfully launched last month aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket in California. Space Machines Company’s Mission Ops team is actively working to establish and maintain communication with Optimus, ensuring progress in the mission.
A Space Machines Company spokesperson confirms that Optimus is in its planned orbit and has been tracked since launch, dispelling concerns about its whereabouts. Optimus carries advanced technology from local innovators, including printed solar cells from CSIRO, manoeuvring technology from Advanced Navigation, a hyperspectral imaging system from Esper Satellite Imagery, and other experimental technologies.
Support for Space Machines Company and Optimus mission comes from various ventures, highlighting the collaborative efforts and challenges in space exploration.
Despite challenges, Space Machines Company remains optimistic, focusing on analyzing mission data for future enhancements and unveiling plans for fleet expansion in the space economy.
Conclusion:
The status update on Optimus reassures stakeholders about its location and ongoing mission efforts, showcasing Australia’s growing capabilities in the space sector and the spirit of innovation amidst challenges.
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