March 4, 2024
The ANU Quantum Optical Ground Station is a telescope that will support high-speed advanced communications with satellites from low-Earth orbit to the Moon and other deep space laser communication. It will also support future research on advanced communications technologies, providing satellite networks with quantum security and global connectivity. With support from the Australian Space Agency’s (ASA) ‘Moon to Mars’ initiative, the station is being upgraded with the latest optical technology that will enable communication between the station and future NASA-crewed missions beyond low-Earth orbit. The station received major funding from the ACT Government’s Priority Investment Program with additional support from the Australian Space Agency, CSIRO and TESAT. ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr labelled the ground station as a key national asset that positions Australia and the Indo-Pacific region to collaborate and compete on the global stage. “Canberra has the capabilities to support space industry success and to take advantage of the enormous investment being…