Av-Comm Observer: September 2024 

Introducing: Av-Comm’s Space Tradie Program

In 2021, at the Space Industry Association of Australia Southern Space Symposium, Enrico Palermo, Head of the Australian Space Agency, emphasised the importance of developing an industry-relevant workforce in the space sector. He stated, “We need space apprentices, we need Space Tradies.”

In response, Av-Comm Space & Defence is proud to introduce our Space Tradie program, focusing on Satellite Communications Technicians. This initiative, led by our Satellite Ground Station Technician Joshua Kassulke, aims to employ junior members who are enthusiastic about Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM), with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. These individuals will undertake an apprenticeship and receive formal Vocational Education and Training, contributing to a more inclusive and enriched space industry.

Melbourne Space Program

Av-Comm is a proud supporter of the Melbourne Space Program, with a particular focus on ACRUX-2 mission which will aim to take photos of Melbourne from Low Earth Orbit, and see the design, build and launch of a 3U CubeSat bus. Excitingly, Av-Comm will provide the ACRUX program the opportunity to utilise our Australian-made Satellite Ground Terminal, the Cassowary, which will allow the program to transfer content back from the Cubesat.

It was lovely to meet Keshav, Lead Engineer, and Victoria, Project Manager of ACRUX-2 in Melbourne this week to celebrate their team’s success during Innovation Week. We can’t wait until the launch in 2025!

Monthly Hardware Spotlight

Hughes HL1120W Flat Panel Terminal

The Hughes HL1120W User Terminal features an advanced Electronically Steered Antenna (ESA) designed for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) technology, offering fast, affordable, and reliable communications via the OneWeb Ku Band satellite constellation.

PROMAX RangerNeo+ Portable Spectrum Analyser

The PROMAX RangerNeo+ is an advanced Field Strength Satellite Meter and Spectrum Analyser that has multi-function capabilities for TV, Satellite, CATV and WIFI analysis. It is a powerful and essential tool used to assist in the establishment of new sites, and troubleshooting of existing sites.