Western Sydney Aerotropolis: Australian Space Agency, Quickstep to build micro-satellites
Robotics and technology to launch satellites into orbit will be built by a team of Australia’s leading advanced manufacturing at the Western Sydney Aerotropolis. READ ABOUT THE VISION HERE.
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Australia’s leading engine room of advanced manufacturing will be developed as part of a collaborative centre of excellence at the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, with a major focus on “next-generation robotics and micro-satellite technology”.
Advanced manufacturer, Quickstep, has signed on as part of a team of aerospace leaders working together out of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis. It is expected to include organisations such as the Australian Space Agency (ASA), CSIRO, Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems Australia, GE Additive and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
Quickstep chief executive, Mark Burgess, told NewsLocal the company was joining Australia’s first Advance Manufacturing Centre of Excellence at the Aerotropolis base.
“Quickstep produces carbon fibre products for the aerospace and robotic industry,” Mr Burgess said. “We manufacture new technology to make carbon fibre products for defence, medical, rail and automotive, while also working to improve options for satellite and rocket payloads.”
The team out of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis will be working on robotic testing and new aerospace product development alongside a global network of suppliers.
“In terms of space, most of the rockets that fire into orbit are currently produced in the northern hemisphere, but we want to see them become smaller, more efficient and more cost effective so we can produce them here at home,” he said.
“If we can provide lower-cost carbon fibre components for the automotive, robotic, aero and space markets, we can answer the world’s call in this massive market.”
The nation’s largest Carbon Fibre parts manufacture will work alongside the best in the businesses to improve capabilities in aerospace advanced manufacturing and the planned Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility, according to Western Sydney and Jobs Minister Stuart Ayres.
“We want the Western Parkland City to be a global leader in aerospace advanced manufacturing,” Mr Ayres said. “I have no doubt this is just the start of a long-term relationship and it will play a key role in making our vision for the Aerotropolis a reality.”