Advanced Navigation develops navigation system for rocket

Advanced Navigation, a leader in navigation and autonomous systems, recently received grant funding from the Australian Space Agency to accelerate the development of a space-graded high-shock inertial navigation system (INS) to withstand the extreme conditions of a rocket launch. The system is supporting Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies in the imminent launch of its Eris rocket and ElaraSat platforms to low Earth orbit (LEO).

“In the vast emptiness of space, without external guides, rockets rely on a sophisticated suite of navigation, guidance and control (GNC) systems,” said Advanced Navigation CEO and co-founder Chris Shaw. “The onboard navigation system must withstand dynamic conditions, gravitational forces, and the intricate physics of orbital mechanics, while providing a reliable flight path. Put simply, the system must be indestructible.”

The onboard INS consists of a plethora of high-end sensors, including accelerometers and gyroscopes, sensitive enough to detect the smallest change in noise and vibration. These delicate components must be shielded from the extreme forces experienced during launch, including shock, vibration, shifting gravity, payload impact and extreme temperature change.

One innovative solution is the integration of a high-shock enclosure — a protective barrier encircling the INS housing. This enclosure acts as a cushion between the system and the surrounding structure, absorbing and redistributing intense g-forces from engine ignitions and launch vibrations. By dampening these shocks, the enclosure prevents disruptive forces from reaching the sensors, preserving their precision in the harshest conditions.

Eris is the first Australian-designed and -built rocket aiming for orbit. The launch window for the rocket’s maiden flight was due to open on 15 March, but has been delayed by Cyclone Alfred as Gilmour’s staff, who had flown up to the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland to prepare for the launch, were sent home to look after their families and properties. The company is currently working with regulators to provide an updated launch window.

Image caption: Gilmour Space’s Eris orbital launch vehicle at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport. Image credit: Zaid Dillon.