Using subatomic particles that rain down from space to effectively see through the Earth sounds like something from an outlandish science fiction movie.
But that’s exactly what mDetect and Swinburne University are pioneering in an effort to help people see the unseeable, and identify potentially catastrophic risks.
The Victoria-based company is translating cutting-edge astrophysics research from Swinburne University into the use of muons, which are subatomic particles that naturally rain down from space, and are able to pass through solid matter.
The tech firm has worked out how to use muons to create detailed images of underground or internal structures without the need for drilling, scanning or other invasive measures.
The company’s detectors can be placed underground, within infrastructure or underwater and then provide continuous, real-time monitoring of any potential density changes, helping to prevent accidents and improve productivity.
“With multiple devices, we can create a 3D image of the density structure allowing identification, monitoring and evaluation,” mDetect co-founder Jerome Donovan said.
“Built around small, robust and cost-effective devices, we provide the most adaptable and deployable technology platform that revolutionises detection and monitoring capabilities.
“Unlike traditional methods, our technology platform provides a non-invasive, wide-field view of subsurface structures, reducing exploration costs and improving geological mapping and safety.”
mDetect was spun out of Swinburne University in 2020 to commercialise the research, and astrophysicist and science communicator Professor Alan Duffy is the co-founder.
mDetect and Swinburne University are finalists in the InnovationAus Awards for Excellence in the Translation Hero Award. The InnovationAus 2025 Awards for Excellence winners and finalists will be celebrated at a black-tie gala dinner at Sydney Town Hall on Thursday, November 27. You can book your tickets here.
The Translation Hero Award is proudly sponsored by CSIRO’s ON Innovation Program.
The category spotlights the successful commercialisation of deep-tech research, spanning various sectors, from plant-based meat production to space initiatives. It is open to individuals and companies who have brought research to life, delivering commercial success or a positive social impact.
mDetect has applications in mining, infrastructure and defence, among other industries.
For mining companies, the technology can help to track the movement of a hidden void over a space of time, acting as a real-time early warning system.
mDetect has also worked with local governments to monitor areas that may be too risky to excavate, such as old landfill sites.
The company has scored a $1.5 million co-investment from the federal government’s Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, and also landed an Australian Economic Accelerator Innovate grant along with Swinburne University.
Donovan said the award nomination is strong recognition for the early work of the tech company.
“We think these awards are critical for promoting the incredible innovations coming out of Australia,” he said.
“The team at mDetect are honoured to be nominated alongside so many incredible finalists. We are proud to be part of game-changing Australian space research to drive impact in the critical minerals sector.”
The 2025 InnovationAus Awards for Excellence will be held on November 27 at the magnificent Sydney Town Hall. You can secure individual seats or book a table here. Purchase a table of 10 and have your logo displayed on screens across the venue and in the event programme as a ‘Table Sponsor’.
The InnovationAus 2025 Awards for Excellence are proudly supported by ACS, PEXA Group, the CSIRO ON Program, Griffith Hack, TechnologyOne, Q-CTRL, National AI Centre, University of New South Wales, KPMG, AgriFutures Australia, Investment NSW and IP Australia.
Protecting your great ideas with intellectual property (IP) rights can lead to lasting benefits for your growing business. IP refers to creations of the mind, such as a brand, logo, invention, design or artistic work. Head to the IP Australia website to find out more about IP, and how it might help your business.
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