On Wednesday 30 July, Gilmour Space Technologies became the first company to launch an Australian-made orbital launch vehicle from Australian soil. While the flight lasted only around 14 seconds, Gilmour Space described the maiden launch as a strong and promising result.
“For a maiden test flight, especially after an extended 18-month wait on the pad for final approvals, this is a strong result and a major step forward for Australia’s sovereign space capability,” the company said on Facebook.
The Eris rocket successfully lifted off from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport, clearing the tower and completing 14 seconds of powered flight using four hybrid rocket engines, with 23 seconds of total burn time planned. According to the company, all systems performed as expected, including flight software, guidance, navigation and control (GNC).
The autosequence and ignition systems were successful, with smooth operations through terminal count and T-0. Gilmour also confirmed that the rocket and ground systems worked in unison, the launch and range operations were executed safely, and early indications suggest the launch site infrastructure remains intact. Extensive flight data was also collected for analysis.
Despite the brief flight and the rocket not reaching orbit, Gilmour Space stressed that the most important outcome was the safety and morale of the team — and they’re now looking forward to TestFlight 2.
“Only six nations launch to orbit regularly — and just a handful are working to join them,” the company posted on Facebook.
“Today brings Australia closer to that club.
“A huge congratulations to our tireless team, and thank you all for your incredible support. Onwards to TestFlight 2!”
Hon Dale Last MP, Member for Burdekin said he was proud to have support Gilmour Space since the beginning, he was proud of what was achieved during the recent launch.
"It’s fair to say there is more work to do but I know how determined the team at Gilmour Space is to make their space program a success,” he said.
“Given that the ERIS rocket is ground-breaking technology, I think the launch was a success. The history of the space industry is full of unsuccessful attempts, but it is those attempts that have triggered the biggest advances.
“I am also incredibly proud of the way in which Bowen, and the region, have supported the Gilmour Space team and I know that support has meant a lot to people working so hard to make Bowen the home of Australia’s space industry.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the launch had been long-awaited and marked a major milestone for the Whitsundays.
“This morning, Gilmour Space’s Eris rocket got off the ground at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport,” Mayor Collins said.
“It wasn’t without its challenges, with the mission ending soon after, but the fact it got off the ground is a huge achievement in itself — and a testament to the persistence and innovation of James, Adam and the entire Gilmour Space Technologies team.
“For the Whitsundays, this is an important first step towards the giant leap of a future commercial space industry right here in our region.
“We’re really excited to be with them on this journey and to see the space industry in the Whitsundays develop further.”
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said that although the flight was short-lived, it was still a historic moment for Bowen, the region, and the nation.
“The Gilmour brothers have always made it clear that first test launches do not usually make it to orbit,” she said.
“There has been a lot of interest in the launch, from locals and visitors, and we look forward to hearing about the plans for future launches.”
The Eris TestFlight 1 took flight on Wednesday morning. Photo sourced: Facebook
The rocket successfully launched and completed 14 seconds of flight
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins with Gilmour Space Technologies
Photos sourced: Facebook
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