Despite lasting just 14 seconds, Gilmour Space Technologies is calling the maiden launch of its Eris rocket a success, marking a turning point for Australia’s space industry.
The 23-metre, 30-tonne Eris rocket blasted off from Bowen Orbital Spaceport yesterday morning, making it the first-ever orbital-class rocket launch from Australian soil. Gilmour Space says the mission achieved exactly what a first test should: proving critical systems and identifying how to improve for the next launch.
CEO Adam Gilmour said space is hard, with multiple test flights needed before orbit.
“We’ve learned a tremendous amount that will go directly into improving our next vehicle, which is already in production.”
Currently, only six countries regularly launch to orbit. Gilmour Space aims to make Australia the next. With TestFlight 2 already in the works, Gilmour Space is reviewing flight data to pinpoint what caused the flight to fail.”
“Every test, especially the first, is a learning opportunity,” Gilmour said. “Congratulations to our talented team for getting us this far. Onward to TestFlight 2.”
