Raytracer puts mission operators in control of their satellites and other assets with a live 3D simulation from the comfort of their computer desk.

Remote operations capability is one of Australia’s key strengths in space, and Brisbane company Raytracer is driving it further with state-of-the-art CARBON software. The package combines AI, machine learning, and digital twin technology to provide a complete 3D view of assets in space, making it simple to monitor and remotely control them from Earth in real-time.

As well as offering a dynamic live picture, CARBON’s technology can model space environments and predict future mission scenarios, giving operators reliable advice to stay one step ahead on mission decisions. For increased security, CARBON is also designed to run on ‘air gapped’ (isolated) computer networks – and while most AI systems need cloud connections for re-training and updates, the software can retrain its AI model using only telemetry from inside the local air gapped network.

Investment from the Australian Space Agency’s Moon to Mars program in 2023 backed a partnership between Raytracer and Optus to demonstrate CARBON through Optus’ D3 communications satellite operations. In 2026, CARBON was fully installed inside Optus's Integrated Satellite Network, setting it up to continue supervising D3 around the clock – ingesting telemetry, detecting anomalies, and showing Optus’ team of controllers what’s happening live. Independent commissioning measured CARBON’s anomaly detection at over 98% accuracy, and rated operator usability with a perfect score.

Operator using the CARBON interface. Credit: Raytracer

Operator using the CARBON interface. Credit: Raytracer

In addition to space, CARBON is designed to offer predictive analytics and optimisation strategies to industries on Earth, where complex remote assets need supervision through long telemetry feeds in constrained environments. Key examples include offshore energy, large-scale autonomous mining, critical infrastructure monitoring, and defence intelligence and surveillance systems. Since the Optus deployment, Raytracer has engaged with new deployments of CARBON in the logistics and construction sectors.

CARBON is a mission control centre that not only shows you what's happening now but can also predict future events and suggest optimal responses… the machine learning aspects allow for intelligent, adaptive decision-making, thereby reducing human error and increasing the efficiency of space missions.

~ Peter Clowes, Co-Founder and CEO of Raytracer

View of the CARBON interface. Credit: Raytracer

Technology features

  • Secure air-gapped command-and-control platform integrating AI, machine learning, and robotics.
  • AI-driven predictive maintenance and anomaly detection.
  • Real-time digital twin and mission simulation environment.
  • Designed also for terrestrial use in sectors like logistics, construction, energy, and manufacturing.

Pictured above: View of the CARBON interface. Credit: Raytracer

CARBON interface close-up of satellite. Credit: Raytracer

Project highlights

  • Agency Moon to Mars grant awarded to demonstrate Australian capability in an Optus on-orbit satellite servicing mission.
  • Achieved TRL 9 deployment in an operational satellite network.
  • Established sovereign technology with future lunar, Mars, and other commercial space applications.

Pictured above: CARBON interface close-up of satellite. Credit: Raytracer

Professor Francis Bennet (pictured) with a state-of-the-art telescope at the ANU Quantum Optical Ground Station (QOGS), capable of providing space-to-ground laser communications. Photo: Nic Vevers/ANU

Industry showcase

Australian space innovations making an impact.

Explore

Our department recognises the First Peoples of this Nation and their ongoing cultural and spiritual connections to the lands, waters, seas, skies, and communities.

We Acknowledge First Nations Peoples as the Traditional Custodians and Lore Keepers of the oldest living culture and pay respects to their Elders past and present. We extend that respect to all First Nations Peoples.