Skykraft, a Canberra-based company, has reached a significant milestone in its mission to transform global air traffic management from space. The company has successfully tested its satellite thruster, a crucial component in its constellation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. This achievement validates the thruster’s capability to support Skykraft’s plans to deploy a global space-enabled Air Traffic Management (ATM) satellite network by 2026.
According to CEO Dr. Michael Frater, the successful testing of Skykraft’s thruster is a significant milestone in their journey to revolutionize air traffic management from space. “This technology not only enhances the capabilities of our satellites but also underscores our commitment to the responsible use of space. We are excited to continue our progress towards deploying our space-enabled ATM satellite constellation in 2026, which will bring unprecedented levels of efficiency and safety to global air traffic management,” he said.
The Skykraft thruster will provide the spacecraft with a comprehensive range of capabilities essential for effective and sustainable operation throughout its life. After the satellite is launched, the thruster enables orbit raising, allowing the satellite to maneuver into its operational orbit post-launch. During the satellite’s operational life, the thruster plays a crucial role in station keeping, maintaining the satellite’s precise position within its orbit. This is vital for ensuring consistent coverage and communication reliability within a satellite constellation.
Moreover, the thruster supports collision avoidance maneuvers, allowing the satellite to make controlled adjustments to its trajectory to avoid potential collisions with space debris or other satellites. This feature enhances the safety and longevity of the satellite.
In line with Skykraft’s commitment to space sustainability, the thruster also establishes controlled de-orbiting at the end of the satellite’s operational life, ensuring compliance with global standards for responsible space usage.
Skykraft’s successful thruster test is a significant step towards the deployment of its ATM satellite constellation. As the company continues to push the boundaries of space technology, it remains committed to improving the future safety and efficiency of global air traffic management.
Skykraft provides Air Traffic Management (ATM) services from space, focusing on global air traffic surveillance and communication, particularly over remote and oceanic regions where ground-based infrastructure falls short. The Australia-based company uses small satellites and specialized ATM infrastructure to support Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) worldwide. With a space-enabled approach, Skykraft aims to improve the safety and efficiency of air traffic management, offering a reliable solution to meet the evolving needs of the international aviation sector.
