Space Machines Company, an Australian-Indian in-space servicing firm, has announced strategic partnerships with two leading Indian space companies to work on space operations and traffic management.
The collaborations, unveiled at the Bengaluru Space Expo 2024, will play a crucial role in the upcoming Space MAITRI (Mission for Australia-India's Technology, Research and Innovation) mission.
The partnerships involve Ananth Technologies, India's aerospace and defence manufacturer, and Digantara, a full-stack space infrastructure company specialising in space operations and traffic management.
These alliances will support the launch of Space Machines Company's second Optimus satellite, scheduled for 2026 aboard NewSpace India Limited's Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).
Ananth Technologies will provide comprehensive Assembly Integration and Testing (AIT) services, along with engineering and logistics support throughout the Space MAITRI program.
This includes safe transportation and handling of spacecraft components, testing in state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities in Bengaluru, and launch site spacecraft fueling.
Digantara will integrate its advanced short-range electro-optical payload onto Optimus, enabling the tracking of resident space objects. This capability is crucial for executing close approach maneuvers during on-orbit operations and collecting broader Space Domain Awareness data.
The Space MAITRI mission, backed by an AUD 8.5 million grant from the Australian government, aims to demonstrate progress towards space debris management and a sustainable space future.
It represents a significant step in strengthening the space collaboration between Australia and India, combining Australian spacecraft capabilities with India's proven launch expertise.
Australian High Commissioner to India, Philip Green OAM, emphasised the growing strategic partnership between the two countries in the space sector. Similarly, Indian High Commissioner to Australia, Gopal Baglay, highlighted the mission's potential to enhance bilateral ties and contribute to sustainable in-space services.
