SpIRIT: How nanosatellites help us understand the Universe
About this Event
In this lecture, Prof. Trenti will introduce the SpIRIT nanosatellite: launched in orbit on 1st December 2023, it sent over 400 images back to Earth, recorded hundreds of hours of X-ray imaging data, and orbited the Earth over 16,000 times. As the first satellite supported by the Australian Space Agency, its operations aimed to detect gamma ray bursts out to the edge of the observable universe. Prof. Trenti leads the project, and shares in this lecture the many scientific, engineering, AI and autonomous achievements of the mission, along with what it means for Australia’s space heritage. SpIRIT far out-performed its initial mission, and in early 2026 the team announced “mission complete” for operations. The final stage of the mission will happen soon – with the 11kg satellite due to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere (where it will burn up) in around August 2026… keep an eye out!
We are living in a new era of both astronomy and space exploration. The 2026 July Lectures in Physics is a thought-provoking free lecture series where world-leading physicists bring engaging talks to the Melbourne public every Friday in July since 1968. This year marks 100 years since the first flight of a liquid-fuelled rocket by Robert Goddard, 40 years since the launch of the first Mars rover (Soujourner) and is the year we witnessed humans returning to the moon with the inspirational Artemis II mission. Our eminent speakers will be asking the big questions: Should humans colonise Mars, and how would we? What can Australian-made satellites tell us about our Universe? What role do local scientists play in space exploration? How has the discovery of gravitational waves changed astronomy? Join our line-up of eminent speakers to find out.
Refreshments will be served after each lecture in the foyer of Sidney Myer Asia Centre
We are grateful for the support of the Laby Foundation for enabling this talk, which forms part of the wider programme of the Oxford XIII Cultural Astronomy School and the .
Agenda
🕑: 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Public Lecture
🕑: 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Reception in the foyer of Sidney Myer Asia Centre
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
AUD 0.00
