Tim Parsons

Space Ventures Investors Ltd and Space Centre Australia Pty Ltd have signed a Letter of Intent. Key points: - We are supporting the development a spaceport in North Australia. - The strategic importance of an equatorial, southern hemisphere, heavy launch, spaceport has long been overlooked. - Space Centre Australia has support from the Australian Space Agency, Federal and State Governments and traditional owners. Read more on our website and interact with our Spaceport Map: https://lnkd.in/eZrHeiyt Full Description: Simon Drake, CEO of Space Ventures Investors explains the significance of this LOI: “The strategic importance of an equatorial, southern hemisphere, heavy launch, spaceport has long been overlooked, and Space Centre Australia is actively developing such a spaceport in North Queensland. A thriving space economy requires a variety of large launch facilities that have a geographical and geopolitical fit. The goal is that Europe, East Asia and even North America, can safely launch from North Australia. I distinctly remember growing up in Queensland in the 1990s, there were ambitious plans to make a spaceport in the north, however national and state-level political distractions have left this task up to us, in the 2020s, to make it a reality.” Space Ventures Investors Limited is an early-stage investor in international space startups including earth observation, launch, and space resources and Lunar landers. It is scaling up to support the next wave of space innovation, such as infrastructure-level operations like launch solutions that are cheaper and more environmentally friendly, new spaceports, space based solar power, and the extraction of resources from the surface of the moon. Space Centre Australia has support from the Australian Space Agency, Federal and State Governments and traditional owners. It is building a strategically located launch facility in North Australia. It is also developing a Net Zero Launch Infrastructure, manufacturing technologies for launch vehicles and payloads, a state-of-the-art datacentre infrastructure to manage space mission data efficiently, and initiatives in green energy infrastructure like geothermal and hydrogen production to lessen the dependency on conventional energy sources. James Palmer, CEO of Space Centre Australia, states: “Investing in space infrastructure and exploration isn’t merely a choice; it’s a paramount necessity. Just as we prioritize investing in a burgeoning Australian company with a global reach, we must grasp that our collaboration with Space Ventures Investors magnifies the significance of ongoing international interest in the development of our launch facility.”

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This ADF decision seems indicative of several emerging market trends and technology inflections in the satellite sector that I will briefly characterize below: (1) It is vital that we recognize the emerging market demand for simultaneous, multi-network connectivity and the blending of historically independent network ecosystems.   This includes the convergence of:  - space with terrestrial networks  - diverse orbital regimes & infrastructures  - communications with earth observation constellations   - in-space processing with space-based crosslinks   - military with commercial networks to deliver ‘insights-at-the-edge’ that blend C5ISR with EW/IW/Cyber Network Operations in a JADC2 context that elevate coherent, cognitive networking to realize “ONE NETWORK”. (2)  Market leaders must transition from a ‘connectivity’ mindset that is equipment-centric to a ‘network-as-a-software’ mindset that efficiently empowers subscribers with intelligently-defined, tailored services. (3) There may soon be nothing called a “modem”, rather a virtual infrastructure that ‘instantiates’ the functionalities of a modem, specifically tailored for each individual subscriber need & duration ….  in a multi-purpose, multi-waveform, multi-orbit and multi-network context.   And, the infrastructure framework must be holistic, agnostic and independent. (4) New Space is largely LEO-dominate and the relatively short life of LEO satellite constellations will drive fundamental changes in New Space ecosystems, especially the companion ground infrastructures, which will be:  - Architected as software-centric and cloud-native such that capabilities continually evolve in a ‘network-as-a-software’ context   - Procured using ‘as-a-service’ business models that enable more comprehensive value creation than the traditional equipment procurement models of the past  - Established as collaborative partnerships (versus vendor relationships) that will include multi-network orchestration, data collection & analytics, and much more  - Intelligently Exploited to blueprint next generation performance envelops that continually enhance the user/subscriber experience while simultaneously constantly improving network efficiencies to steadily improve the service provider’s financial return. In summary, This is a highly dynamic technology sector and there is much to consider on this topic - and this is just the tip of the iceberg.

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How Much Would You Invest in a Lunar Mining Company? We ran this survey 2 years ago and we’re promoting it again because the growing space resources community, who are laser focussed (pardon the pun) on unlocking resources from space, ultimately require private capital to turn their concepts, development software, laboratory models, and hardware, into the space infrastructure of tomorrow. Additionally, investors have played their part throughout history by backing truly disruptive and rewarding endeavours. What could be more disruptive, and sustainable, than tapping the resources of space? Through our company Lunar Resources Registry UG we can see there are 100s of locations that need to be explored and “drilled” to ascertain what’s there and of value; on the Moon (ISRU), in space (CisLunar), and even back on Earth. I’m sure in the comments section critics and space capitalists will be blasting holes in each other’s assumptions on the future market value of space resources. We’re mainly interested in finding out at what price would you have skin in the game for a commercial Moon Mine. The supply-chain to make it all possible is still in development yet completely feasible given direction, time and funding. So, if you have an interest in space, investing, engineering, mining, energy, resources, new units of value (crypto) and old stores of vale (gold, silver), we’d like you to put a number on how much you could conceivably invest in an early-stage Lunar Mining Exploration and Extraction company and subsequent operations. Is there a Prize? Yes. There’s always a prize. We’ll choose at random someone who fills in our form and send them an A1-sized printed map of the Moon (valued at €100!). Everyone will receive a 1-page overview of the results. Follow the link to find out more. https://lnkd.in/eDfkyHDT

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The 13th International Association for the Advancement of Space Safety (IAASS) Conference has released their program and Shaun Wilson will be presenting our joint paper with input from representatives of the Australian Space Agency and Asia Pacific Aerospace Consultants Pty Ltd on Wednesday morning, the 9 October 2024, in Prague. He'll be discussing the challenges and the opportunities of establishing new space launch and returns regulations in Australia. In the joint paper, we have reviewed the changes made since their initial establishment and will discuss lessons learned from the initial applications under the legislation and review potential initiatives for improvement in the future. The team of co-authors included Shena Howell, Shaun Wilson, Justin Hill, Christopher De Luis, Adam Clash, Jeremy Margrie, John Wharington and Sam Randell. The paper is titled 'Implementation of Modernised Australian Space Activities Regulatory Framework: Ensuring Risk-based Safety Assessments, Adaptable for a Burgeoning Space Launch Environment'. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gs7eZ6-c #systemsengineering #space #spacesafety #FIA2024 #regulatoryframework #safetyassessments

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Australia's role in the global space ecosystem is entering an exhilarating phase! 🚀 Following the The Andy Thomas Space Foundation Forum, we not only have a rocket standing vertical awaiting launch authorisation but the promise of the recently ratified Technology Safeguards Agreement holds the exciting promise of bringing rocket landings to our shores in coming years. And not just any rocket, but the biggest and most exciting development in rocketry the world has seen since the Apollo era. SpaceX has nearly singlehandedly revolutionised space access for the burgeoning Australian new space industry, enabling substantial growth through lower costs and an open market. In the coming weeks, another test of this system is anticipated, with the potential for stage recovery. Their achievements in Texas demonstrate that with sufficient motivation, launch and landing towers can be erected in months, and entire spaceports can be established within a year. It is thrilling to consider that this capability could soon be coming to Australia. iLAuNCH Trailblazer is dedicated to building Australian sovereign space capability and training the workforce of the future to meet the needs of tomorrow. As it turns out, the needs of tomorrow could very well include reusable spaceport operations for one of the largest rockets ever imagined. -Comments by iLAuNCH Trailblazer Chief Technology Officer, Dr. Joni Sytsma. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gFgcNA7m #iLAuNCH #Trailblazers Australia's Economic Accelerator

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Well done to the team at Advent Atum. This will certainly accelerate development.

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More constructive disruption from SDA! Today, SDA announced 19 non-traditional space companies that make up the Hybrid Acquisition for Proliferated Low Earth Orbit (LEO), or HALO, pool, an acquisition approach to solicit and rapidly award protype demonstrations and experimentation to support future tranches of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (#PWSA). This marks the first time SDA has used this type of solicitation to select a pool of performers. Future prototype orders under HALO will focus on rapid end-to-end mission demonstrations with launch of two identical satellites 12-18 months after award. The first planned prototype orders in HALO are for the Tranche 2 Demonstration and Experimentation System (T2DES) projects, which will reduce risk for future tactical data links and optical communication missions. Pool members selected include: 1. Airbus US Space & Defense, Inc. 2. Apex - Spacecraft Manufacturing 3. AST SpaceMobile 4. Astro Digital 5. Capella Space 6. CesiumAstro 7. Firefly Aerospace 8. Geneva Technologies, Inc. 9. Impulse Space 10. Kepler Communications Inc. 11. Amazon Project Kuiper 12. LeoStella 13. Momentus 14. Muon Space 15. NovaWurks, Inc. 16. SpaceX - Space Exploration Technologies Corp. 17. TURION SPACE 18. Terran Orbital Corporation 19. York Space Systems LLC Congrats to all the HALO pool awardees! For more information, read the full press release here: https://lnkd.in/dp-tVec3 #Space #Defense #SemperCitius #Industry #NewSpace

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#DisruptiveTech 🔵 I came across this informative piece, on ISR sensors for surface maritime applications, by New Zealand-based analyst and writer, the inimitable Tim Fish. I would add to his list featuring HENSOLDT and FLIR Systems some more players including Arkeus, Overwatch Imaging, Shield AI (Sentient) and Vizgard. Electro-optic and infra-red (EO/IR) imaging systems are an essential part of any surveillance system designed to monitor the littoral regions of the world. EO/IR equipment forms one part of the wider intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities in coastal areas and islands that includes radar, satellite imaging and other sensing devices. EO/IR sensors are important as they detect reflected light radiated in the electromagnetic spectrum, including bands beyond the visible spectrum, producing high-resolution images in real-time. Compared to radar and satellite imagery, EO/IR systems are shorter in range but provide a much more detailed image of an object. This can give the level of detail necessary to support decision-making and provide enough data for precise target identification and classification. Furthermore, EO/IR is passive when detecting radiation giving a stealthy option for surveillance. Meanwhile, whilst radar offers longer-range detection it is often active, emitting a radio frequency signal and detecting the returns. This means radar signals can be detected by the target. Other sensors such as optical imaging satellite cannot see through clouds which means they are limited in bad weather. #EO #IR #ISR #littoral #opticalsurveillance #navy Asian Military Review, Campaign Catapult, Pravo Consulting

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Australia's Defence capabilities are getting a serious boost with the upgrade of the P-8A Poseidon fleet by Boeing Defense, Space & Security Complex Defence projects like this rely on a vast network of suppliers and subcontractors, presenting challenges for SMEs looking to secure their place in the value chain. This investment signals a continued demand for specialised skills and innovative solutions within Australia's maritime Defence sector.  Could this be your business’s chance to contribute to cutting-edge technology? AIC Connect has the expertise to navigate the complexities of the Defence industry. We'll help you identify potential opportunities and develop a winning strategy to get your work in front of key decision-makers. Let's explore how your business can tap into Australia's growing Defence capabilities. Get in touch today! https://lnkd.in/g-jygikq #DefenceIndustry #MaritimeDefence #AustralianDefence #SMEs #Opportunities #b2b

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New from me: I wrote about Australia's new guidance for satellite direct-to-device services. Despite lingering interference concerns, the country’s regulator ACMA has confirmed that D2D services can be operated under existing spectrum licences. This is good news for the country’s mobile operators, who are all exploring satellite D2D solutions. Optus is working with SpaceX to launch SMS in late 2024, expanding to voice and data services in late 2025. TPG Telecom and Telstra have both agreed to test messaging solutions with competing startup Lynk. Australia is not the first country to give satellite D2D the go-ahead. Earlier this year, the US adopted a so-called Supplemental Coverage From Space (SCS) framework, setting out specific rules for satellite D2D services including which spectrum bands can be used. The ACMA’s approach is more “hands-off”, with issues to be addressed as and when they arise. However, the regulator’s consultation revealed a variety of concerns from incumbents and radio astronomers. These remain unresolved as the ACMA looks to address problems when (and if) they arise. Thanks to Gökhan Tok for his comments on this piece! https://lnkd.in/evxh4PnM

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Insightful report on Australia's space sector from 2008! The report and Australia's trajectory today regarding space, have made me realize that early decisions that were taken and political will towards developing a society's space sector, really made a difference in several of the countries I have studied. Think France, Canada, and India, besides the U.S., U.S.S.R., and China! https://lnkd.in/edKe_xy2

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EX2 HAS NEW STORIES: The three EX2 lead news stories today (www.ex2.com.au) are: Brisbane firm Hypersonic has signed an MoU with Southern Launch to conduct a series of hypersonic test bed launches; French company Sirius Space Services plans up to 18 launches a year from ELA’s Arnhem Space Centre in northern Australia; and eight companies out of 173 hopefuls have been selected to win contracts under the inaugural AUKUS Electronic warfare Innovation Challenge. EX2 HEADLINES - www.ex2.com.au In Other News: ·      Anduril Australia signs 3-year contract with RAAF for C-UAS trials ·      Defence to invest in domestic Solid Rocket Motor program ·      Lockheed Martin launches AGM-158 eXtreme Range variant Read these stories and more at EX2. Innovation is all about new technologies and techniques that solve wicked problems; it’s about the R&D and innovation processes that develop these new technologies and techniques; it’s about the linkages, collaborations and inspiration that make them possible. It’s called thinking outside the square That’s what EX2 is all about.

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🚀 AUKUS: The Future of Defence Systems Takes Flight with AI 🛩️ The US, UK, and Australia have just taken a bold step forward in defence. Under the AUKUS initiative, these allies are integrating AI into unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This isn’t just about technology—it’s about redefining the future of warfare. AI-powered UAVs promise to revolutionise military operations. They’re designed to make decisions faster, react to threats more effectively, and operate with unparalleled efficiency. Imagine the impact on national security when machines can think and act almost instantaneously. But this isn’t just a technological win. It’s a testament to the power of international collaboration. By working together, these nations are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. 🌍 Yet, with great power comes great responsibility. The ethical implications of AI in warfare are enormous, and we must tread carefully. ⚖️ As AI continues to evolve, so too will its role in shaping global defence strategies. It’s a thrilling time to witness these advancements, but we must also consider their broader impact on the world. Curious to see more? Watch this insightful video: https://lnkd.in/eVg_Zjb6. 🎥 What are your thoughts on AI in defence? Let’s discuss. 💬 #AI #Defence #AUKUS #Innovation #Technology #UnmannedAerialVehicles

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Could DJI’s Legal Battle with the U.S. Shift Australia's Stance? DJI’s recent lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Defense, challenging its classification as a "Chinese Military Company," could have significant ripple effects globally, including in Australia. For years, DJI was a key player in Australia’s defence and research sectors, but government restrictions have since halted the use of DJI drones across federal agencies. Just five years ago, the Australian Defence Forces (ADF) invested heavily in DJI technology. Hundreds of DJI Phantom 4 drones were deployed to train personnel. Southern Cross Drones was also invited to supply next-generation systems and software applications. DJI drones were also central to CSIRO’s research activities, supporting tasks like mapping, crop analysis, and aerial spraying. However, Australia followed the U.S. lead, banning DJI purchases for federal use, which undobtedly stalled many important research projects. This ban mirrors a broader trend of aligning with U.S. defence policies, but DJI’s latest legal pushback in the U.S. may present an opportunity for change. Should DJI succeed in its lawsuit, it could set a precedent for countries like Australia to reconsider their stance. A reversal of this decision could revitalise innovation, enabling the ADF and CSIRO to leverage DJI’s cutting-edge technology once again. For companies like Southern Cross Drones, it would reopen opportunities to support public and private sector clients with advanced solutions. As the legal battle progresses, it remains to be seen whether a win for DJI could mean a win for Australia's innovation landscape, too.

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STEM Superstars matter. Their visibility inspires others. Modesty prevents many from being too visible, but those around them feel bolder when they are. If you know someone in STEM who you feel should be more visible as a role model and STEM Ambassador, and who’d inspire others, encourage them to apply. We need more heroes. #stem #womeninstem #diversity #equality #science #engineering #manufacturing #advancedmanufacturing

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Later this week, the Australian Centre for Space Governance (ACSG) will release the next episode of Space Matters: The Space Governance Podcast, which discusses Australia's first survey on public understandings of space activities. Hosted by ACSG executive director Dr. Aleksandar Deejay with steering committee members Dr.Tristan Moss and Kathryn Robison Hasani, PhD. this insightful discussion is based on a recent publication exploring the significant gap between public interest and knowledge of space technologies. Key Findings: • A notable lack of awareness and knowledge about space activities among Australians. • A disconnect between public interest in space and the actual knowledge about space technologies. • A crucial need for clearer messaging and communication on how space activities impact daily life, national needs, and government priorities. Don’t miss this rich podcast episode that looks into promoting public understanding of space governance. Tune in to learn how we can bridge the knowledge gap and better communicate the critical role of space activities, which have widespread effects on commercial, industry, and government stakeholders. 🎧 Keep your eyes peeled later this week on our LinkedIn and website #spacegovernance #spacelaw #spacepolicy #sciencecommunication ANU Institute for Space | InSpace UNSW Canberra Flinders University School of Regulation and Global Governance (RegNet)

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Lets talk about AI ALIGNMENT: Palantir's AI model is providing the first level of oversight in the UK's defence review process: summarizing and presumably prioritizing submissions. https://lnkd.in/giSfnptc #ai #alignment #aialignment

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Is there really a nuclear weapon in outer space? Find out by listening to our latest podcast episode featuring multicultural and multilingual guests from three continents. The Australian Centre for Space Governance is excited to share part one of Space Security is Here and Now. In this episode, we had a dynamic conversation with four internationally recognised experts in the field of space security: Victoria Samson (Secure World Foundation) Jessica West (Project Ploughshares) Almudena Azcárate Ortega (UNIDIR — UN Institute for Disarmament Research) and Sarah Erickson (UNIDIR — UN Institute for Disarmament Research)   Our panellists share their diverse career paths that led them to space law, space security, and space policy within the broader field of space governance. We discuss the military origins of space exploration, the profound impact of weapons of mass destruction and Cold War-era nuclear tests, and the development of key international space treaties that continue to shape our global landscape, noting increased activities in outer space.   We explore how these issues are being addressed and what they mean for the future of arms control in outer space. This episode is essential listening for professionals and enthusiasts interested in the intersection of technology, global security, and international law. 🎧 Whether you're working in the space industry, government, arms control, international affairs, peace and security or simply curious about how space governance impacts us all, this podcast episode offers insights from experts who are shaping the policies and practices of tomorrow. #spacegovernance #spacelaw #spacepolicy ANU Institute for Space | InSpace ANU Defence Institute ANU College of Asia & the Pacific Crawford School of Public Policy ANU College of Asia & the Pacific ANU College of Law United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)

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