Australia-India space partnership takes flight: Start-up teams with two Indian firms for Optimus satellite launch

Australian start-up Space Machines Company has partnered with Indian firms Ananth Technologies and Digantara to enhance its satellite services. This collaboration will enable the assembly and testing of their Optimus spacecraft at Ananth's facilities in Bengaluru. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard ISRO's Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) in 2026.

Optimus will use optical sensors from Digantara, a firm known for tracking space debris. These sensors will help the satellite perform close approach manoeuvres safely.

Space Machines Company's CEO, Rajat Kulshrestha, stated, "These partnerships represent a significant milestone for both the Space MAITRI mission and Australia's growing connection with India's space sector."


Ananth Technologies will assist in integrating the second Optimus spacecraft with the SSLV for a successful launch. Ananth Technologies' Chairman, Subba Rao Pavuluri, remarked, "This agreement is also an opportunity to showcase India's growing test and launch capabilities and how our space sector is working with international partners to address global opportunities and challenges."

Digantara will integrate their advanced optical payload on Optimus, tracking nearby space objects and aiding in safe manoeuvres. Digantara CEO, Anirudh Sharma, said, "Our collaborative work with Space Machines Company will enable Optimus to track and engage short-range resident space objects, a vital capability when executing close approach manoeuvres during on-orbit operations."

The Australian government has invested $8.5 million in the Space MAITRI mission, which aims to strengthen Australia-India cooperation in space technology and innovation.