Advanced Navigation partners with Gilmour Space for INS system

Advanced Navigation is collaborating with Gilmour Space to create a high-shock Inertial Navigation System (INS) designed to endure the extreme conditions of rocket launches.

The project has received grant funding of AUD $856,077 from the Australian Space Agency as part of the Moon to Mars Initiative: Supply Chain Capability Improvement Grant. This funding will facilitate the development of the system in alignment with the specifications set by Gilmour Space.

The completed system will support Gilmour Space's Eris Rockets and Elara Satellite platforms, targeting Low Earth Orbit missions. It promises to provide accurate navigation while enduring harsh environmental conditions, including shock, vibration, and extreme temperature changes during launch.

Chris Shaw, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Advanced Navigation, stated, "In the vast emptiness of space, without external guides, rockets rely on a sophisticated suite of navigation, guidance, and control (GNC) systems. The onboard navigation system must withstand dynamic conditions, gravitational forces, and the intricate physics of orbital mechanics, while providing a reliable flight path. Put simply, the system must be indestructible."

"Our engineers are excited to continue their innovations in developing sensors for high-stakes environments. We look forward to supporting Gilmour Space in advancing Australian-made launch vehicles to help lower the cost of accessing space."

Developing an INS capable of surviving the rigorous conditions of a rocket launch involves substantial engineering challenges. The system must endure repeated testing, including exposure to high-impact forces, continuous vibrations, and extreme temperature fluctuations.

The navigation system will be embedded with advanced sensors, such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, to detect subtle changes in noise and vibration. These sensors must be protected by a high-shock enclosure that absorbs and redistributes forces encountered during launch, preserving their accuracy.

Kody Cook, Deputy Chief Engineer at Gilmour Space, commented, "This partnership brings together two companies committed to growing Australia's sovereign aerospace capabilities. We look forward to working with Advanced Navigation on future missions to enhance our launch and satellite systems for our global customers."

The final stages of the project's development involve a rigorous testing phase that replicates the conditions of a rocket launch. The INS will be subjected to simulated scenarios such as shock from stage separations, continuous vibrations during ascent, and temperature extremes from launch to space operation.

Enrico Palermo, Head of the Australian Space Agency, said, "Projects like this one demonstrate the ingenuity that Australia has to offer our international partners in space. Through this investment we are helping Australian companies gain crucial space heritage and grow strong customer bases—which will generate more opportunities for Australia to collaborate on the global stage."