A miniature Australian-made satellite that will shed light on radio frequencies is now in low-Earth orbit.  

The Australian Defence Science and Technology Group’s Buccaneer Main Mission recently lifted off from the US.

The mission is Defence’s second Buccaneer project. Its primary 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

Australian space sector collaborations 

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 space company, Inovor Technologies, 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 a testament to the ingenuity of the Australian space industry and academia base and demonstrates how Defence is harnessing the key expertise and facilities available on our home soil."

~ Chief Defence Scientist, Professor Tanya Monro AC

In 2017, the first Buccaneer project – Buccaneer Risk Mitigation Mission (BRMM) – was launched in collaboration with UNSW Canberra Space. It contributed to Defence’s ability to improve Australia’s over-horizon radar network and made a global impact – supporting international efforts to understand and mitigate space congestion. 

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Defence Science and Technology Group and Inovor engineers finalise the engineering model spacecraft random vibration testing at the National Space Test Facility in The Australian National University | Credit: Department of Defence.
Person working in a lab

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Main image caption: DSTG Engineer Darin Roberts attaches a radio frequency cable to the engineering model spacecraft during anechoic chamber testing at REDARC Defence & Space. | Credit: Department of Defence.

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