The Astrosite, a mobile space situational awareness (SSA) module, is set to have game-changing impacts on a number of fields, including defence. Using biologically-inspired event-based cameras – i.e. cameras that function like the eye and brain to overcome limitations of cameras exposure times and saturation – the Astrosite can capture objects in space with unprecedented temporal resolution, and during the day in real time.
Professor André van Schaik, director of ICNS, said this innovative technique could be the key to making space a safer place: "With tens of thousands of man-made objects currently orbiting in space, the risk of collision between debris, satellites and spacecraft is real. This has become a serious concern not only for organisations with a commercial interest in space, but also for national and international defence agencies."
The defence application of this technology has already sparked interest, with the RAAF’s Plan Jericho supporting the design and development of the Astrosite.
==
==
"By using technology inspired by nature and biology, we have developed a dynamic imaging system that runs faster, computes more efficiently, uses far less power and produces less data than anything currently on the market," Professor van Schaik said.
Project research lead associate professor Greg Cohen said the potential of this technology is game-changing.
"The potential uses of this technology are endless. For example, the Astrosite can observe high-speed phenomena such as satellites and provide early warnings of potential collisions; allow the daytime recording of objects in low earth orbit; facilitate imaging in low-visibility environments; monitor space debris and allow the high-speed tracking of objects," said Dr Cohen.
The Astrosite research team is based at the WSU’s ICNS. ICNS is a new research centre and part of the MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development. The centre is explicitly interdisciplinary, by combining electrical engineering, computer science, signal processing and neuroscience. The centre's focus is on developing neuromorphic engineering solutions to existing problems. ICNS has strong international partnerships within the neuromorphic engineering community.
PROMOTED CONTENT
The Astrosite will be on display at the Avalon Airshow from 26 February – 3 March. Media tours can be organised from 26-28 February. Interviews, photos and video available upon request.
Deputy vice-chancellor (research and innovation) Professor Deborah Sweeney said this world-first research reflects WSU’s commitment to academic excellence and impact-driven research.
"As a young and innovative university, we pride ourselves on establishing strategic partnerships and connecting research excellence with practical and positive impacts for the communities we serve. This project further cements Western as a world-class, collaborative and engaged university with a growing international reach and reputation for academic excellence and impact," said Professor Sweeney.
Receive the latest developments and updates on Australia’s space industry direct to your inbox. Subscribe today to Space Connect here.
