ASX-listed Sky and Space Global have hit another major milestone in the countdown to the launch of its "3 Diamonds" nano-satellites project after they were designated ready for launch following the completion of final testing in Europe.
The company said on Monday that its first three nano-satellites received the designation from the Perth-based company's construction partner, Danish nano-satellite producer Gomspace, who were responsible for integration and verification testing on the miniature satellite devices.
In the update, Sky and Space said that with final testing now complete, the "3 Diamonds" nano-satellites would be transported to Innovative Space Logistics’ facilities in the Netherlands where they would be integrated into their "Quadpack" launch pod.
Innovative Space Logistics are a world leader in small satellite launch integration and they have already headed-up 12 previous successful missions on the Indian Space Research Organisation's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, which earlier this month completed a world record launch of 104 satellites.
This is the same launch vehicle that will catapult Sky and Space Global’s nano-satellites into space in the second quarter of this year.
Sky and Space Global CEO Meir Moalem said: "Achieving Ready for Launch designation for our nano-satellites is a substantial milestone for Sky and Space Global. I am very happy we have met every milestone we have set for ourselves.”
"With the testing and construction of our 3 Diamonds nano-satellites complete, we look forward to launching our 3 Diamonds aboard the ISRO's PSLV for our first commercial inflight demonstration."
The milestone launch is a key part of the company’s plan to launch up to 200 nano-satellites into orbit from mid-2018. The company’s miniature satellite technology, which is much smaller and cheaper but just as effective as traditional satellites, will target industries such as shipping and aviation and regional areas that are currently poorly serviced by existing telco players.
Earlier this month, the company received a boost after signing a deal with the US Department of Defence for the provision of space situational awareness services to ensure the safety of the company’s nano-satellites whilst in space.
By Matt Birney
