The Indian Space Agency will launch a satellite manufactured by an Australian company in what is expected to be the most important commercial space industry relationship between Australia and India. It’s interesting to note that Australia’s largest satellite, the 450 kg “Optimus,” would be the passenger on this mission, called “Space MAITRI” (Mission for Australia-India’s Technology, Research and Innovation), which would be carried out by SSLV, the newest and smallest rocket from India. The Australian company Space Machines Company and ISRO’s commercial arm, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), have struck a deal to launch this project in 2026.
The Optimus satellite is a special piece of hardware designed to evaluate other spacecraft while they are in orbit and even carry out specific types of repairs. “Optimus will enter park mode and wait for its next mission once it reaches earth orbit. The operators of any malfunctioning satellite in orbit will notify Space Machines, which will send Optimus to the malfunctioning satellite to examine it and determine the cause of the problem, according to the Space Machines Company.
The operators of the malfunctioning satellite might be informed of the precise technical problems the craft is experiencing based on the inspection carried out by Optimus. Optimus satellites have the potential to carry out in-orbit repairs, refueling, and even the safe disposal of satellites that have reached the end of their useful lives when this technology develops further. It is feasible to significantly increase the operating life of satellites and slow down the fast spread of space debris by performing repairs and refueling.
“The strategic partnership between Australia and India is highlighted by this collaboration with Space Machines Company, which exemplifies the spirit of international cooperation in space,” stated Radhakrishnan Durairaj, Chairman and Managing Director of NSIL. The successful completion of this mission represents a critical turning point in Australia and India’s strategic space relationship, strengthening the bonds between their respective commercial, institutional, and governmental space organizations.
“Australia’s space sector has advanced significantly with the launch of the Space MAITRI mission and our partnership with NewSpace India Limited. Rajat Kulshrestha, CEO and Co-Founder of Space Machines Company, stated, “We are demonstrating our shared commitment to sustainable space operations and strengthening the ties between our nations’ space sectors by combining our innovative spacecraft capabilities with India’s proven launch expertise.”
Digantara, Ananth Technologies, The University of Adelaide, The University of Sydney, The University of Technology Sydney, LeoLabs, Advanced Navigation, and the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) are among the Australian and Indian partner companies working with Space Machines Company on the “Space MAITRI” mission.
