Advanced Instrumentation and Technology Centre

The Advanced Instrumentation and Technology Centre (AITC) is a national facility in Canberra, Australia. It was established to support the development of the next generation of instruments for astronomy and space science.

Our facilities enable the engineering of complex astronomical and space mission instruments from concept through to launch pad. Our leading experts, specialist environments, precision manufacturing and rigorous testing are ideal for end-to-end production of spacecraft and instrumentation.

We have the only space simulation facility in the region, allowing us to extensively test space mission instruments. We can mimic not only the challenging conditions of airlessness and dramatic temperature fluctuations in space, but also the demanding vibrations and accelerations generated during launch to ensure that our equipment will still perform and function correctly after launch.

Our expanding facilities allow for multiple large and complex projects and include the following:

Large and small cleanrooms
Space simulation facility – thruster test configuration
Space simulation facility – thermal-vacuum test configuration
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) test chamber
Thermal cycling facility
Mass properties testing
Mechanical shock testing
Pyrotechnic shock testing
Vibration testing
Materials processing
3D printing

History

The Advanced Instrumentation Technology Centre (AITC) opened in 2006 at Mount Stromlo Observatory, on the edge of Canberra, Australia’s capital.

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Capabilities

AITC provides cutting-edge, extensive capabilities in the development of high performance instrumentation for ground-based telescopes and space missions, including precision manufacturing, rapid prototyping and the test and evaluation of small spacecrafts.

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Education

The AITC at the Mount Stromlo Observatory offers diverse educational programs, including the AITC Summer Student Program in partnership with Northrop Grumman, Master of Astronomy & Astrophysics, PhD programs, and work experience for students.

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Projects

The ANU Research School of Astronomy & Astrophysics (RSAA) Advanced Instrumentation and Technology Centre (AITC) projects page showcases cutting-edge projects spanning from adaptive optics to space instrumentation. These initiatives demonstrate the AITC's commitment to advancing astronomical and space research technologies.

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