University of Auckland Wins Funding for New Space Tracking Satellite

The Rakiraki satellite is being developed to serve as a trusted reference point for both radar and optical space tracking systems at the same time.

The University of Auckland has secured $300,000 in Government funding to develop a new satellite mission and improve the tracking of objects in space. Space Minister Chris Penk announced the funding as part of the second round of the Kiwi Space Activator pilot programme, an initiative designed to help New Zealand researchers and businesses move promising space technologies from development to real-world deployment.

The successful project, known as Rakiraki, will involve the design, construction and launch of a CubeSat, a small satellite that will contribute to space tracking efforts and strengthen New Zealand's growing space capabilities. Penk said the programme plays an important role in helping local innovators turn research into commercial opportunities while supporting the development of sovereign space technology.

Rakiraki mission aims to improve space awareness

The Rakiraki satellite is being developed to serve as a trusted reference point for both radar and optical space tracking systems at the same time. Researchers hope the mission will improve the ability to monitor and understand objects orbiting Earth, an increasingly important task as the number of satellites and space debris continues to grow. Accurate tracking helps protect critical services that people rely on every day, including GPS navigation, communications networks and emergency response systems.

The University of Auckland will lead the project in partnership with Auckland University of Technology, while Space Operations New Zealand will provide ground station support for the mission. Officials say the project represents another step forward in developing advanced space technologies within New Zealand and building expertise that can be applied in both scientific and commercial settings.

Growing space sector attracting investment and opportunities

Penk said New Zealand's space industry continues to expand, creating highly skilled jobs and attracting international interest from investors and technology partners. The Kiwi Space Activator programme was established to help overcome one of the biggest challenges facing emerging space companies and research projects: proving that their technology works in real-world conditions. In the space sector, demonstrating successful performance through an actual flight mission is often essential for securing customers, investment and future commercial contracts.

The Minister said the strong response to the funding programme reflects the depth of innovation within New Zealand's space community. Across the first two funding rounds, a total of $1.78 million has been allocated to four projects through the Kiwi Space Activator initiative. The Government believes these projects will help strengthen New Zealand's reputation as an emerging player in the global space industry while creating new opportunities for research, technology development and commercial growth. Penk said he looks forward to seeing the selected projects progress toward launch and contribute to the future of New Zealand's space sector.