SA space firm’s new launch
SA company Fleet Space Technologies will launch its fifth nanosatellite this morning as part of its bid to build a constellation of satellites to connect remote sensors across the globe with the Internet of Things.
Image: supplied.
The Centauri 3 satellite will be deployed during a Rocket Lab launch from its Complex 1 at Mahia on New Zealand’s North Island from about 8.50am, Adelaide time.
The mission will be the 19th for Rocket Lab’s Electron launch vehicle will deploy a range of satellites for commercial and government satellite operators.
Centauri 3 will be Fleet Space’s fifth commercial nanosatellite to head into orbit as part of its planned 140 constellation
Meanwhile, the Beverley-based company has applied for a $5 million federal government Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI) grant so that it can jump from building three hand-built nanosatellites a year to mass-producing 50.
Additional support from the South Australian government will supplement the nearly $4 Million the company is raising itself.
If the grant application is successful, Fleet Space says it will become a major satellite manufacturing hub and increase its payroll from 31 staff to 128 by 2024.
-with AAP
