Emerging space technology companies, and newly formed space agencies, face considerable challenges building expertise required for complex safety engineering, risk analysis, simulation, and public safety assurance.
National interests compel accelerating the development of intelligent regulatory frameworks to enable operational capability and uphold safety standards.
Image: Carlos Rendo, Nova Systems Principal Launch and Space Safety Engineer, addressing International Association for Advancement of Space Safety, Osaka 2023.
Solution
Nova Systems leveraged its over 25-year legacy in flight testing and safety assurance, including several sub-orbital hypersonic launches at Woomera - bringing together the Space Safety & Mission Assurance (SS&MA) team in 2020.
Built upon experience with both military and civil research launch and insights supporting development of international regulatory frameworks for operational safety of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). The capability now combines commercial space industry experience with our established range safety capabilities. Created to support the evolving needs of the New Space market with tailored regulatory and safety solutions.
Outcome
Over a five-year period, Nova System’s SS&MA Team has delivered high-impact contributions to space regulatory development across Australia, New Zealand, and Norway. Including:
Evaluation of first-time launch and facility permit applications
Development of foundational regulatory artefacts
Creation of assessment guidance aligned with international best practices
Definition of flight safety system qualification requirements
Recommendations and rationale for orbital launch risk criteria
Delivery of education and solution packages as regulatory frameworks suitable for defence space operations
Nova’s work has been instrumental in shaping safe and effective regulatory environments for emerging space activities – earning recognition for its strategic insight and technical rigour.