BREAKING: Australia’s SpIRIT nanosatellite has just captured its first “selfie” in space, marking a monumental milestone in its mission. Launched in December 2023 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, SpIRIT is now fully operational and has transitioned into its core scientific role, set to track cosmic gamma-ray bursts (GRBs).
Images released by the University of Melbourne confirm that all onboard systems, including its advanced thermal management and deployable camera arm, are functioning flawlessly. The satellite has logged over 600 days in orbit, completing more than 9,000 orbits around Earth, a distance comparable to a round trip to Mars.
The selfie was taken over New Zealand and showcases the innovative technology designed and built in Australia. “SpIRIT has demonstrated the capability that exists within the Australian space sector,” stated Enrico Palermo, head of the Australian Space Agency. This achievement also highlights the collaboration with the Italian Space Agency, which contributed a scientific instrument for the mission.
Now that SpIRIT has successfully completed rigorous testing, it is poised to become an early warning system for astronomers worldwide, detecting unpredictable cosmic explosions resulting from stellar collisions or supernovas. The satellite will utilize the HERMES X-ray prototype detector provided by ASI to identify these GRBs.
“Now that SpIRIT has completed rigorous testing in space, we are confident it’s ready to commence the next phase of its mission, which is truly exciting,” said Michele Trenti, principal investigator and professor at the University of Melbourne.
SpIRIT has already showcased its capabilities by detecting the Crab gamma pulsar after only 700 seconds of observation, indicating its readiness for the challenges ahead. With more than 1,000 days expected in orbit, the satellite is set to make further significant contributions to our understanding of the universe.
The successful deployment and operation of SpIRIT not only mark a pivotal moment for the mission but also illustrate Australia’s growing presence in the global space sector. As the satellite begins its scientific endeavors, the world watches eagerly for the discoveries that lie ahead.
Stay tuned for more updates as SpIRIT embarks on this groundbreaking journey in the cosmos.