Meet the Team

Industry Advisory Board Chair, SmartSat CRC

Pete Nikoloff is Chair of SmartSat CRC’s Industry Advisory Board and Executive Director / Co-founder of Nova Systems and Senior Weapons System Engineer. He obtained an Aeronautical Engineer degree from Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in 1986 and has 30 years’ experience supporting Defence and Space projects. Peter’s Woomera Test Range experience includes supporting the recent upgrade and operations for both military weapon systems and launch operations.

Peter is a strong advocate for growing a strong space industry in Australia and is a Director of the Andy Thomas Space Foundation, member of the South Australian Space Advisory Council and was on the executive team for the SmartSat CRC bid. Peter was a member of the team bringing the International Astronautical Congress to Adelaide in 2017 which was a significant catalyst for the establishment of the Australian Space Agency.

Director, South Australian Space Industry Centre

Joining SASIC in 2021, Dr Catherine Grace was appointed to the role of Director, Space in February 2023. Catherine is heavily involved in supporting the development of South Australia as the nation’s centre-of-gravity for space activity, leading industry and economic development activities for the state and guiding the development of South Australia’s space sector strategy. Catherine has a strong focus on emerging opportunities in disruptive technology and is committed to educational outreach and equity across the Space and Defence sectors.

Catherine is a (registered) physician who has held international roles in clinical research, partnership engagement and strategy development. A graduate of the International Space University (SHSSP22), she has also studied Archaeology & Human Biology, holds an MBBS (Medical University of Warsaw) and Post Graduate qualifications in Research and Defence. An enthusiastic speaker and multilingual orator, Catherine has also been recognised for contributions to medical research and gender diversity.

Industry Director, SmartSat CRC

Dr Sarah Cannard is an experienced Senior Engineer and Project Manager with over a decade of demonstrated history working for Nova Systems in the defence and space industry. Sarah has a degree in Mechanical Engineering, a Bachelor of Science (Physics) and holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the University of Adelaide. She is also a Fellow with Engineers Australia, an Amelia Earhart Fellow (Zonta International), a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and is currently completing her Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). Sarah is also the Program Director and Project Manager for Australian Remote Operations for Space and Earth (AROSE.org.au). She has been involved with many complex defence, space and civil programs including the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) Hayabusa I Spacecraft re-entry, hypersonic rocket launches, Woomera Test Range trials and activities, the Joint Navy/Defence Science and Technology Autonomous Warrior 18 activity, and the Hunter Class Frigate Program.

Sarah has a deep passion for space and growing a sovereign Australian industry through cross-sector collaboration. She is also passionate about STEM and creating opportunities for future generations.

Senior Systems Engineer, SmartSat CRC

Nick Manser joined the SmartSat team at the beginning of 2022 to work on the South Australian Space Mission satellite, Kanyini. previously, Nick has over 12 years’ experience working at Defence Science and Technology Group, first as a Computer Scientist and then as a Cyber Security Specialist.

Nick holds a Bachelor of Computer and Information Science from the University of South Australia and a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Adelaide.

Systems Engineer, SmartSat CRC/Nova Systems

Nadia Sarunic is a Systems Engineer from Nova Systems and has been working with the SmartSat CRC in the satellite systems engineering team on the Kanyini mission since 2021. She graduated from the University of Adelaide in 2020 with a Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering (Mechatronic) (Honours) and a Bachelor of Mathematical and Computer Science.

Nadia’s software and systems engineering skills have been utilised test the software interface, document test procedures and results, and enable the integration and verification of the HyperScout 2 payload into the Kanyini satellite. She is also supporting the team through the early stages of commissioning and operating the HyperScout 2 payload whilst in orbit.

Electrical and Electronics Lead/Kanyini Project Lead, Inovor Technologies

Daniel Esparon has been shaping the future of space technology since joining Inovor Technologies in June 2019. His journey began as an Embedded Systems Engineer, but he quickly rose to the position of Electrical Team Leader. In this role, he oversees all aspects of electronics design, from system-level architecture to board development. As the Electrical Team Leader, Daniel is responsible for: System-Level Design, Team Leadership, Satellite Electronics, Manufacturing of both Engineering and Flight Grade hardware for Inovor’s Apogee satellites. As the Project Lead for Inovor’s Kanyini Space Services mission he dives deep into spacecraft system design, spanning both ground and space segments. His expertise ensures seamless coordination between these critical components.

Daniel has a first class honours double degree in Engineering (Electrical) & Science (Physics) from the University of Queensland.

Project Manager, Inovor Technologies

Aaren Barker holds an Honours degree in Mechanical and Sports Engineering from the University of Adelaide. His passion for all things engineering led him to pursue a career in Aviation. During his studies, Aaren completed a work placement at Cobham Aviation Services Australia in early 2018. His primary role at Cobham was as a production planner, overseeing the heavy maintenance of aircraft and managing all maintenance and repair work on Bae146 engines. Aaren spent a considerable time in the hangar, meticulously assessing and reporting aircraft damage. In 2021, Aaren embarked on a new adventure by joining Inovor. As a Project Manager, he spearheads various spacecraft mission projects, including the groundbreaking Kanyini mission.