A team of top space scientists has been selected to lead the new Innovative Launch, Automation, Novel Materials, Communications and Hypersonics (iLAuNCH) program, an initiative headed by the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ).
Former Director Space for the South Australian Space Industry Centre Darin Lovett will step into the role of iLAuNCH Executive Director later this month. Lovett first entered the industry as a flight test engineer with the Air Force, and has since held positions as senior manager at Boeing Phantom Works International and Chief of Strategy for the Executive Agent for Space at the US Department of Defence.
Lovett will be joined by space specialist Dr Milica Symul in the role of Chief Operating Officer, and aerospace expert Dr Joni Sytsma as Chief Technology Officer. Dr Rosalind Dubs, who has held positions on the Space Industry Innovation Council and chair of the SmartSat CRC, will lead the advisory board.
iLAuNCH is a $180 million consortium led by UniSQ, in partnership with Australian National University, University of South Australia, and 21 industry organisations, designed to build Australia’s sovereign space capabilities by identifying critical gaps and accelerating several key areas of technology.
It is supported by $50 million in funding from the Australian Government’s inaugural $362.5 million Trailblazer Universities Program.
“iLAuNCH will help unite Australia’s world-class institutions, organisations, and companies in achieving a common goal – to propel the country’s space industry forwards,” Lovett said.
“Australia is on the cusp of creating a sustainable space ecosystem and this program will pave the way for viable exports in a globally competitive market.”
“The University is delighted to have secured such a capable and enthusiastic team to take the vision of iLAuNCH forward,” UniSQ Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor John Bell said.
“With their guidance, the program will ensure the growth of Australia’s space sector well into the future.”
Through iLAuNCH, teams will work to advance the country’s automation abilities, communication technology, and use of novel materials. iLauNCH also expects to play an integral role in growing the Australian space manufacturing sector by boosting the development of rockets, launch facilities, and rapid satellite manufacturing.