Australia eyes global SWIR lead with new satellite constellation

LatConnect 60 (LC60), an Australian company specializing in Earth observation and AI, is undertaking a growth investment round to advance its Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) satellite constellation. The company, which is moving from demonstrating its SWIRSAT missions to building a constellation, plans an initial 18-satellite network, with a long-term goal of 100 satellites by 2035. This expansion aims to achieve sub-1 meter resolution at scale, creating a persistent, high-resolution Earth intelligence layer.

The SWIR constellation roadmap aligns with Australian and allied defense strategies, focusing on sovereign capability and advanced space architectures. Western Australia serves as a strategic anchor for LC60's Australian sovereignty strategy, with the new Edith Cowan University Space Integration Facility supporting local spacecraft integration and workforce development. This facility is crucial for controlling the entire data chain, from tasking to dissemination.

SWIR technology is vital for its ability to reveal signatures not visible in standard imagery, offering significant applications in agriculture for crop stress detection, in sustainability for environmental monitoring, and crucially in defense for maritime awareness and infrastructure assessment. LC60 has already demonstrated civilian traction, supporting national-scale programs for smallholder farmers in Southeast Asia, with defense and allied offtake representing a growing market opportunity.