Macquarie University AAO Delivers Space-Ready Thermal Camera for Satellite Launch

Thermal Imaging

Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) at Macquarie University has delivered its Malya thermal camera system to Queensland-based Gilmour Space Technologies. The camera is scheduled for launch into orbit next year as part of an upcoming Gilmour Space satellite mission.

The space-qualified Malya payload consists of two thermal infrared cameras and an edge computer from Sydney-based tech company Spiral Blue.

AAO cut years off the typical space-ready production timeline by repurposing the ground-based camera technology for space applications.

Associate Professor Lee Spitler, Head of Space Projects at AAO, Macquarie University, says, “By uplifting an off-the-shelf camera for use in space, we have been able to produce a working system much faster than building a space-grade camera from scratch."

The project taps into instrument expertise developed over fifty years by AAO, which designs and constructs highly specialised precision telescope components for astronomy observatory clients across Australia and the Pacific, Europe, Asia and Americas.

Kody Cook, Head of Satellites at Gilmour Space, says, "This all-Australian mission showcases the growing capabilities of our local space industry, from Gilmour's rocket and satellite to AAO's payload and Spiral Blue's computer."

The Malya camera system is designed to communicate with the satellite's computer, which will direct it to capture images of specific targets. Its dual-camera setup allows for photographing larger regions of interest, such as areas of the Earth.

Named for the Dharug and Dharawal word for the diamond python (which has thermal infrared sensing capabilities) the Malya camera will bring heat-detecting technology to space-based observations.

 Potential applications for the Malya thermal camera include bushfire detection,  earth observation, and defence.

The partnership between these three Australian companies – AAO, Gilmour Space Technologies and Spiral Blue - demonstrates a successful collaboration between academic institutions and industry in creating innovative space technologies for commercial applications.

The delivery of the Malya payload also coincides with National Science Week, highlighting the achievements of Australian scientists and engineers in space technology development.

Related Articles
FLIR Extech BR450W Wireless Video Borescopes
FLIR, has launched the Extech BR450W Series of video borescopes for inspecting difficult-to-reach targets in building, automotive, and plant maintenance applications. The two models, the BR450W-D...
Detect air and gas leaks
Flir has added to it’s  Si-Series of acoustic imaging cameras with three models in the new Si2 family, designed for detecting compressed air leaks, specialty gas leaks, mechanical faults, and partial...
FLIR CM276 Professional clamp meter and thermal imaging camera
FLIR has released the FLIR CM276 professional clamp meter with infrared imaging, a visual camera, and solar photovoltaic (PV) direct current (DC) built for electrical test and measurement. The CM276...