A joint research agreement to define a Precise Point Positioning (PPP) service channel and standardisation of message format for use in the spatial information and positioning business sector was signed in Melbourne by Thales and RMIT University.
The research collaboration will bring together technology and research from both Australia and Europe to develop space-based solutions for Australia and global markets.
“The work brings together, in Australia, the existing technology base of the Navigation Business Line of Thales Alenia Space with the expertise and experience of RMIT researchers led by Associate Professor Suelynn Choy, in the definition and evaluation of high accuracy positioning services," Michael Clark, Director Technical Strategy, Thales Australia, said.
“It reflects the commitment of Thales to contribute to the development of Australia’s space sector and bring our global expertise to opportunities such as the Australian strategic commitment to a Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS)."
Professor Choy said the joint research project with Thales was an important element of RMIT’s growing involvement in the space sector, ensuring interoperability of high accuracy satellite based positioning services.
“A strong focus of RMIT is to work closely with industry and other partners to create value and impact. We are delighted to build on our existing relationship with Thales to build capacity and make a positive contribution to Australia’s growing space industry,” Professor Choy said.
“Thales Alenia Space is pleased to combine its complementary skills with RMIT to develop, deliver and sustain leading edge precise positioning solutions," Benoit Broudy, VP Navigation Domain Thales Alenia Space, said.
The research work will focus on the definition of a new generation of high accuracy PPP services that will be an important part of a future roadmap for the evolution of positioning services in Australia. It will also provide a technology platform from which to develop regionally scalable solutions for export into a global market.
“We are very excited about this strategic initiative that underscores our commitment to grow the Australian Space sector in line with our Joint Statement of Strategic Intent with the Australian Space Agency," Matt Dawson, Director Space Business, Thales Australia, said.