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13h ago

Australia’s First Homegrown Orbital Rocket Achieves 14-Second Flight Before Termination

The test confirmed hybrid engine performance; safety measures held firm, yielding data that will inform the next test campaign

The launch
An undated handout photo released by Gilmour Space Technologies on May 14, 2025 shows a three-stage Eris rocket seen near Bowen, on the east coast of Australia. An Australian company says it aims to make the first orbital test launch of a locally-developed rocket on May 15, carrying a jar of Vegemite as its payload.
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Overview

  • The Eris rocket lifted off from Bowen Orbital Spaceport on July 30, achieving about 14 seconds of flight before an early shutdown triggered a controlled crash.
  • Hybrid propulsion, avionics and telemetry systems functioned as designed up to the termination point, with no injuries or environmental harm reported.
  • Bowen Orbital Spaceport, Australia’s first licensed commercial orbital facility, successfully hosted its inaugural launch.
  • Gilmour Space will analyze data from ignition, thrust and range tracking to refine its next test campaign in the coming months.
  • The mission marks the first integrated attempt to launch a fully Australian-built orbital-class rocket and advances the country’s sovereign satellite launch capabilities.