Plans are already in motion to build one of Australia’s biggest space projects, the Australian Satellite Manufacturing Hub (ASMH). Part of this ASMH project will be to build a homegrown sub-500kg space hardware that will be launched into outer space to gain vital insights into Australia. With the government throwing its full weight into this project, the ASMH will boost prospects for the Australian space industry.
According to Jim McDowell, CEO of ASMH collaborator Nova Systems, “The ASMH will be a nationwide approach to developing Australia’s space-qualified ecosystem and will see the assembly and integration of larger satellites, space vehicles, and components.” This project will be the first significant step of Australia getting serious about space and ending its reliance on other countries’ hardware for vital information on what’s happening in Australia.
The ASMH project is a collaboration between multiple space tech companies in Australia. The partnership is between Electro Optical Systems (EOS) (ASX:EOS), Nova Systems, Gilmour Space, and UTS Tech Central. With the Federal Government pumping $23.5 million, the NSW Government $22.8 million, EOS and Nova $10 million, and Gilmour Space kicking in $5 million, the ASMH project is heavily funded.
“Funding for the Australian Satellite Manufacturing Hub will further lift our credentials as a leading space nation. This Hub will grow capacity in our space sector, support the development of new high-skilled jobs and enable the space supply chain where collaboration to build large satellites is right here at home.” Said former Federal Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction, Angus Taylor.
The ASMH project aligns with the Australian Space Agency’s Earth Observation from Space Roadmap 2021-2030, with the initial stage of the project specifically designed for Earth Observation satellite missions. EOS CEO Glen Tindall couldn’t contain his excitement in a recent interview by StockheadNews, where he said, “The government is showing commitment, rather than just talking, as they are supporting the Australian industry towards realizing their vision.”
The ASMH project will benefit the companies involved and create at least 125 jobs in Jerrabomberra, Sydney, where it is to be located. From all indications, ASMH looks like a step in the right direction. Let’s see the potential it holds for the future of space tech in Australia.
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