Australian start-up Space Machines Company has partnered with two Indian firms, Ananth Technologies and Digantara, to advance its satellite services. This collaboration will see the assembly and testing of the Optimus spacecraft at Ananth's Bengaluru facilities, with a planned launch aboard ISRO's Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) in 2026.
The Optimus satellite will feature optical sensors from Digantara, a firm specializing in tracking space debris. These sensors will enable the satellite to safely conduct close approach manoeuvres.
Rajat Kulshrestha, CEO of Space Machines Company, said, "These partnerships mark a significant milestone for both the Space MAITRI mission and Australia's growing connection with India's space sector."
Ananth Technologies will also assist in integrating the second Optimus spacecraft with the SSLV to ensure a successful launch. Subba Rao Pavuluri, Chairman of Ananth Technologies, emphasized that this agreement highlights India's expanding test and launch capabilities and its role in addressing global challenges through international cooperation.
Digantara will integrate their advanced optical payload into Optimus, which will track nearby space objects to support safe manoeuvres. Anirudh Sharma, CEO of Digantara, said, "Our work with Space Machines Company will allow Optimus to monitor and interact with nearby space objects, a critical capability for on-orbit operations."
The Australian government has invested $8.5 million in the Space MAITRI mission, which aims to strengthen cooperation between Australia and India in space technology and innovation.
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