Optus partners to launch Australian made Low Earth Orbit Satellite

Optus has today announced a huge deal to expand it’s interests in Satellite technology with a partnership to launch Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellites that are uniquely Australian sovereign technology.

Utilising up to $50 million in Government funding the idea is to take exhaustive research from Australian universities and space organisations and take it to full commercial implementation where the Satellite will orbit the earth under the complete control of Australian businesses.

The first Satellite will include a new generation of space to earth camera technology from HEO, while the second will include fast speed laser light communications developed by the University of South Australia.

Nick Leake, Head of Satellite and Space Systems at Optus said, “Connectivity continues to play a critical role in the Australian economy, whether that be through supporting small businesses in regional and remote towns or large enterprises with employees spread across the country, we must continue to explore new ways of delivering services that businesses rely on. 

“By collaborating with Australia’s industry leaders across the public, private and academic sectors, we are able to further advance the use of technology to solve problems, fuel growth and define what’s next for the telco industry while supporting Australian businesses and Australian workers.” 

This though has nothing to do with mobile or internet communications. Optus already has deals in place with a couple of LEO Sat companies including StarLink to provide regional telecommunications

So in reality, no effect or impact on your or I, but one day, one day we might be hearing about some Aussie developed technology taking the world by storm – in space!