Inovor Technologies, a leading Australian provider of sovereign satellite mission solutions, is partnering with the University of Adelaide to develop a small satellite that will demonstrate cutting-edge super-resolution imaging technology in space. The project is supported by funding from the Defence Trailblazer’s Technology Development & Acceleration program, which aims to accelerate the translation of leading-edge technologies to enhance sovereign defence capabilities.
Small satellites—including microsatellites, nanosatellites, and CubeSats—offer cost-effective platforms for Earth observation, but size and weight limitations typically constrain their imaging resolution. This collaboration aims to overcome that challenge by integrating AI-assisted super-resolution algorithms, enabling significant improvements in image quality from low-resolution sensor data.
“Inovor will take the lead in the design, production, testing, and operation of the super-resolution satellite,” said Dr Matthew Tetlow, CEO of Inovor Technologies. “We’ll leverage our proven experience from missions like SpIRIT, Kanyini and Buccaneer, which have been operating flawlessly in orbit.”
The project will involve close collaboration with the Australian Institute for Machine Learning (AIML) at the University of Adelaide, where researchers Professor Tat-Jun (TJ) Chin, Dr Marcus Märtens and Dr Yasir Latif will design image acquisition procedures and develop the corresponding super-resolution algorithms.
“Our goal is to determine how much we can scale up image resolution beyond the sensor’s native capabilities, and define the optimal requirements for a spaceborne super-resolution platform,” said Professor Chin.
By enabling low-cost imaging satellites to detect fine-scale features, this technology would significantly enhance Australia’s access to high-quality geospatial intelligence (GEOINT)—supporting operational planning, monitoring, and decision-making by the Australian Defence Force (ADF). This effort directly aligns with the Deterrence and Resilience strategy outlined in the 2023 Defence Strategic Review and the 2022 Defence Space Strategy, which recognises space as a critical domain for national security.
“Producing satellites capable of super-resolution would significantly improve Australia’s ability to monitor geographically referenced activities across air, land, and maritime domains,” added Dr Tetlow. “By demonstrating sovereign technological prowess in space, we contribute to national resilience and signal to potential adversaries that Australia remains vigilant and ready to defend its interests.”
Beyond Defence, this technology also holds promise for sectors such as environmental monitoring and climate change response. Super-resolution Earth observation could enhance the capabilities of agencies like the Australian Climate Service, supporting the government’s broader efforts to address climate as a national security priority.
For more information, visit the Inovor Technologies website.
