4 space projects score $18 million as iLAuNCH opens Adelaide 3D metals printing plant

Four space research projects at the University of South Australia (UniSA)  have received $18 million in funding as part of the $230m iLAuNCH program.

The funding coincides with the opening of a new Advanced Manufacturing Metal 3D printing facility at VPG Innovation, in Adelaide’s Camden Park. The 3D printing machines can produce titanium and nickel alloys used in space technologies.

The four R&D additive manufacturing projects are: space components using electron beam melting; novel materials for optical components, satellite sub-assemblies; AI/ML-enabled space surveillance system for hypersonic missile defence; and development and flight qualification for an Australian Radioisotope Heating Unit (RHU), supporting a thermal management technology platform for multiple lunar night survival.

Additional projects in areas such as Earth observation and optical communication are due to be announced in coming weeks.

South Australian deputy premier Susan Close opened the new manufacturing plant, saying its 3D printing technology makes it possible to rapidly manufacture custom-made parts and other space infrastructure.

“As we transition from resource-intensive manufacturing to more research-driven and energy efficient processes, we will produce more high-value products,” she said.

“The facility will support a world-class sovereign manufacturing capability that will create new jobs and lead to global exports within the space industry. It will add to our state’s competitive manufacturing advantage and will fill a critical gap in the burgeoning space sector.”

iLAuNCH is backed by $50 million from the Australian government’s Trailblazer Universities Program, as well as $180 million in industry research, commercialisation, and manufacturing investment towards the local space sector. It’s focused on a cultural shift in universities by promoting closer collaboration between academia and industry.

iLAuNCH Executive Director Darin Lovett said the Trailblazer program takes domestic space collaboration to a new level.

“South Australia is primed to launch into a trillion-dollar global space ecosystem,” he said.

“To seize the opportunity, we are focussed on commercialising our world class space technology through collaboration and focussed effort.”

The program focuses on developing commercially viable civil rockets, advanced rocket test and launch facilities, rapid satellite manufacturing, cutting-edge communication technologies, and integrated sensing systems.

UniSA iLAuNCH lead Professor Colin Hall said it was an opportunity for Australia to expand and develop its space engineering ecosystem.

“Through collaboration and innovation, we will demonstrate how space capable technologies can inspire the next generation of space engineers and realise a commercial outcome in this sector,” he said.

More at ilaunch.space