Defence nanosatellite launched into orbit

A fully operational, Australian-made nanosatellite has been launched from the United States into low-Earth orbit.

Buccaneer Main Mission, known as a CubeSat, is the second of two CubeSats launched under the Buccaneer project, following the successful launch of Buccaneer Risk Mitigation Mission in 2017.

Buccaneer Main Mission’s objective is to collect high-frequency measurements in low-Earth orbit, to better understand radio-frequency propagation through the ionosphere.

“The in-orbit outcomes from Buccaneer Main Mission will inform future space-based capability for Defence, and the technology and knowledge gained will be available for Australian industry for use in developing future capabilities,” Chief Defence Scientist, Professor Tanya Monro AC, said.

The cutting-edge payloads were designed by Defence Science and Technology Group, who also integrated the full satellite and qualified it for space worthiness, supported by the Royal Australian Air Force and Space Command in Defence’s Joint Capabilities Group.

South Australia-based small space business, Inovor Technologies Pty Ltd, developed and built the satellite bus, which is the main body and structural component of the nanosatellite.

The collaboration effort with Defence Industry was critical to the successful launch of Buccaneer Main Mission.

“The launch of the nanosatellite is testament to the ingenuity of our people, the Australian space industry and academic base. It demonstrates how Defence Innovation, Science and Technology is harnessing the key expertise and facilities available on our home soil,” Professor Monro said.

A nanosatellite is defined as any satellite weighing between one and 10 kilograms.