Industry Translation

Astronomy is a data-rich field. Our researchers have developed novel tools for analysis, visualisation and discovery; working with low signal-to-noise ratios, time-varying signals, incomplete information and ever-increasing data sizes and rates. Increasingly, machine learning and artificial intelligence are being integrated into our discovery and analysis workflows. 

Our problem-solving skills and flexibility in identifying a variety of analysis and visualisation approaches that can be applied to solve a problem are highly transferable to industry. Our approach to industry translation has enabled projects in medical diagnosis and public health, aviation, defence and the space industry.    

Through the work of Swinburne Astronomy Productions, we have partnered with members of Australia’s creative industries to help inspire public interest and understanding of our universe.

“Astronomers are rarely able to turn to a commercial vendor to provide a ready-made solution. As a result, an agile, adaptable, ‘maker’ culture has emerged. We are always willing to get our hands dirty with data and developing software to solve unique, challenging, data-driven problems.

Our postgraduate students are often the vanguard driving the adoption of innovative new approaches, which are applicable to many different industries that would seem to have no connection to astronomy!”

Professor Christopher Fluke , Centre of Astrophysics and Supercomputing

Our projects

Beat COVID-19

Developed in partnership with our researchers, this app uses people power to map the spread of COVID-19 around the world.

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Astromedical innovation

Translating astronomy-inspired problem-solving to the health industry, we aim to accelerate, enhance and advance medical diagnosis and knowledge discovery for a positive impact on public health.

For more information, contact Professor Christopher Fluke.

IMAX movie production

Working closely with leaders in the Australian film industry and international partners, we have transferred our knowledge of the universe to the largest screens on the planet.

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Cyber-human discovery systems

As the use of machine learning and artificial intelligence increases, new methods are required to support astronomers in discovery and decision-making processes. We are transferring these ideas beyond astronomy to various data-driven industry contexts.

For more information, contact Professor Christopher Fluke.

Our problem-solving skills and flexibility in identifying a variety of analysis and visualisation approaches that can be applied to solve a problem are highly transferable to industry.