Skykraft to launch 300kg satellite on SpaceX mission

Space services company Skykraft has announced it will launch a 300kg satellite on SpaceX’s upcoming Transporter-5 mission.

The satellite produced by the UNSW Canberra spin-off company is a carrier for multiple early-phase Skykraft Air Traffic Management satellites

These will form a global constellation of 210 satellites that will create a space-based Air Traffic Management system to improve the safety and efficiency of global air travel.

The global system is planned for operation in 2023.

Skykraft is now offering the opportunities for small payloads from the scientific, technology development and educational sectors to ride along with its satellite as it blasts into space.

Executive chair Mark Skidmore said: “Skykraft is very pleased to ride with SpaceX, the most reliable and effective launch provider in the world.

“We also congratulate the SpaceX team on their transformative approach to small satellite launch and the rapid cadence of their rideshare opportunities.”

Recently Skykraft received a $1 million grant from the ACT government to accelerate design and manufacture of small satellite systems.

Skykraft is housed in the innovation precinct at the UNSW Canberra city campus on the edge of the Canberra CBD.

Picture: Skykraft’s Majura satellite

Subscribe to our free @AuManufacturing newsletter here.