Case Study - AICRAFT

Real-time information from space is becoming increasingly important for industries ranging from agriculture and environmental monitoring to emergency management and defence. However, the ability to collect, process and deliver that information quickly has traditionally relied on large, complex and expensive satellite systems.

Adelaide-based technology company AICRAFT have partnered with Flinders University through the Factory of the Future to develop advanced electronics that enable radar data to be processed directly onboard satellites. Supported through the South Australian Government's Manufacturing Growth Accelerator (MGA) Program, the collaboration combines AICRAFT's expertise in edge computing and artificial intelligence with Flinders University's research and advanced manufacturing capabilities.

Working together through the Factory of the Future at Tonsley, the team is developing a new low-power analogue-to-digital converter that integrates with AICRAFT's Pulsar Pro edge computing platform. The technology is designed to enable full-accuracy data collection and real-time processing in space, bringing sophisticated radar capabilities within reach of smaller satellite platforms.

The project builds on AICRAFT's longstanding relationship with Flinders University and highlights the value of industry and researchers working together to solve complex technical challenges.

The project represents an important step in the development of sovereign Australian space technologies. Several of the system's core hardware components are being jointly designed and manufactured with Flinders University researchers, helping to build local capability in advanced electronics while accelerating the commercial development of innovative space solutions.

Researchers:

• Dr Amin Mahmoudi