Mr Hussain's space invention journey began in 2016 when he made a purpose-built mobile observatory later named the Southern Cross Outback Observation Project (SCOOP).
The Swinburne University astronomy graduate says the ultimate aim is to deploy a network of similar mobile observatories to track potentially dangerous space debris in low Earth orbit (LEO), which refers to the region of space situated below an altitude of 2,000km.
Such debris can be hazardous if it makes contact with satellites and other objects, according to Mr Hussain.
"Our project is to identify small pieces which can be harmful. We are successful in identifying small pieces from 1cm to 10cm (in diameter)," he says.
He says his vision is for a network of mobile observatories to detect and deal with space debris that poses a threat to satellite communication and future missions.
"The 'Trace, Track and Tackle' model is a sequence that offers a modern, cost-effective solution to the space debris problem," he says.
With synchronised mobile observatories and ground-based laser ADR (Active Debris Removal) technology, SCOOP stands poised to make substantial strides in space debris mitigation, according to Mr Hussain.
Currently in South Australia, the mobile observatory is transported by an SUV, enabling it to journey to various locations for astronomical outreach and research.
"Our model is patent-pending with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This will enable detection, cataloguing and tackling of 1cm-10cm LEO debris through the use of ground-based laser ADR or facilitating orbital ADR methods," he adds.
Mr Hussain transitioned from a medical career as a trainee general practitioner to pursuing his passion for space. He moved to Australia, where he later graduated from Swinburne University of Technology with a graduate certificate in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
SCOOP is not merely a research journey; it is also impacting local communities, he says.
Since its inception in 2016, the observatory has travelled over 12,000 kilometres, bringing the magic of the night sky to distant corners of Australia.Muhammad Akbar Hussain
During National Science Week in 2019, over 100 people in Whyalla, South Australia, marvelled at views of Saturn, Jupiter, and Omega Centauri, while in Loxton, attendees were captivated by solar prominences and celestial wonders.
Given the current landscape, space exploration and research have taken on a new dimension. The worldwide race of space exploration has also progressively intersected with defence considerations.
SCOOP was also nominated last year for the defence industry awards and went on to become a finalist in the Innovator of the Year category.
His project has been nominated again this year and is a finalist in the same category.
This is not about defence against humans, it is about defence against space assets (which is a kind of) 'modern warfare' and we are also looking into its defence importance.Muhammad Akbar Hussain
"I was contacted by defence awards organisers to submit my nomination so that's why I submitted it and later realised that yes, it has defence implications too," he adds.
SCOOP's slogan of a "Modern Solution for (a) Modern Problem" is designed to encourage others to seek inventive solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow, he adds.
Space industry professionals need to embrace innovation and step beyond the confines of conventionality, Mr Hussain says.
"It's crucial to explore new avenues and ideas rather than relying solely on established approaches," he says.
