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17h ago

Australia’s First Orbital Rocket Test Ends with 14-Second Flight and Crash

Gilmour Space hailed engine ignition, pad clearance, data capture as a learning milestone paving the way for a second launch in the coming months.

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.
An aerial photo of a rocket taking off from a landing pad surrounded by smoke
Eris lifting off – a bit

Overview

  • The Eris rocket lifted off on July 30 for 14 seconds before losing thrust and crashing near Bowen, marking the nation’s first home-grown orbital attempt since 1971.
  • All four hybrid propellant engines ignited and delivered 23 seconds of burn time, proving the viability of Gilmour Space’s combined solid-liquid propulsion system.
  • No injuries or environmental damage were reported, and launch site infrastructure at Bowen Orbital Spaceport remained intact.
  • Company officials said flight telemetry and performance data from the brief launch will guide improvements to rocket systems and propulsion design.
  • The Eris program is backed by AU$5 million in recent government grants for the launch vehicle and builds on a AU$52 million investment to boost domestic space manufacturing.