As Australia prepares for its first orbital rocket launch by Gilmour Space, startups based at Sydney’s National Space Industry Hub have quietly gained space heritage on missions like Waratah Seed-1, secured contracts with international agencies, raised over $56 million in funding, and supported 160 high-value jobs.
This momentum was on full display this week, as Cicada Innovations and Investment NSW celebrated four years of progress at the National Space Industry Hub Showcase, highlighting the startups, technologies, and community driving Australia’s space ambitions.
Since launching in 2021, over 80 deep tech startups have been transforming the nation’s space industry, advancing critical technologies that power communications, navigation, and national security.
For every $1 invested into the Space Hub by the NSW Government, participating startups have attracted $74 in external funding.
Investment NSW Executive Director Maroun El Khoury said the National Space Industry Hub has created a melting pot for space activity in NSW, where entrepreneurs can collaborate and advance their cutting-edge technology.
“The NSW Government is committed to fostering a thriving environment where space-related companies can innovate, scale, and commercialise their ground-breaking products and services. Initiatives like the National Space Industry Hub are ensuring businesses and entrepreneurs are empowered to reach their full potential,” Mr El Khoury said.
“With the IAC being held in Sydney for the first time later this year, we have an incredible opportunity to showcase the best of NSW ingenuity on the global stage. This is an event that’s expected to pump $21 million into the local economy and create both immediate and future investment, trade, and export opportunities for our businesses.”
Startup spotlight: DeteQt is building quantum-enabled magnetic field sensors for next-generation navigation and mapping. The Sydney-based startup has secured a $3 million contract with the Australian Defence Force and raised $750,000 in pre-seed funding from Main Sequence Ventures and the ATP Fund. Its diamond-on-chip quantum sensors are also being explored for mining and portable medical imaging applications.
Other Space Hub startups:
- Spiral Blue – Onboard AI computer for satellites, enabling real-time processing of Earth observation data. Their SE-1 is Australia’s first operational edge computer in space, with multiple missions onboard SpaceX Transporter launches.
- Deneb Space – Developing technology to make it easier and less expensive to move satellites in space. Their technology has gained space heritage through deployments on the Waratah Seed-1 and CUAVA-2 missions.
- Aquila – Long-range wireless power systems that keep drones flying without landing. Successfully completed Australia’s first in-flight drone charging trial in regional Victoria at a distance of 50 metres.
- Crest Robotics – Robots designed for high-risk industries such as energy, construction, and defence. The Gorilla Mk1 system was trialled by Transgrid for transmission tower maintenance, reducing the need for workers to climb dangerous infrastructure.
- ANT61 – Autonomous systems for in-orbit satellite servicing and repair. The Beacon device—described as a satellite “defibrillator” was successfully tested in space to restore communications with unresponsive spacecraft.
- MP Space – Founded by former Tesla engineers, they are redesigning satellite power systems for scalable, affordable deployment. Their Pack2 battery and EPS deliver high performance, with the first spaceflight planned for 2026.
About us:
Cicada Innovations (www.cicadainnovations.com) is Australia's leading deep tech incubator. With a 25 year track record of developing ventures focused on the world’s most pressing problems and promising opportunities. Their network of incubators, training, and community are designed to meet the unique needs of deep tech startups. Cicada Innovations has been the home of groundbreaking science and bold engineering, transforming ideas into world-changing ventures, reshaping industries, and driving deep tech success stories in fibre optics, space, medtech, and climate innovation, delivering tangible impact for Australia and the world. They are committed to building Australia's deep tech economy.
Contact details:
Sebastian Parker
Brand and Communications Manager [email protected] 0411696771
