AtSpace has successfully launched its Australian-made A01 rocket on 27 November 2025. The company is a Brisbane-based rocket manufacturer. According to the company, this has placed it in the "rocketry record books" by successfully launching its rocket higher than any other Australian commercial rocket has gone before.
"Our team at AtSpace has been developing our unique hybrid rocket technology for many years. This successful launch proves that our technology is viable and is a great step forward as we move toward developing our orbital launch vehicles," AtSpace COO, Nick Chang, said.
At 09:22 AM, the 12.2m tall rocket was launched from Southern Launch’s Koonibba Test Range and flew close to the target altitude of 80km. The four-and-a-half-minute flight has helped AtSpace validate its hybrid propulsion technology before the rocket safely returned to Earth as planned, according to the company.
"We are incredibly proud to have supported AtSpace in the development and launch of their innovative Australian A01 rocket technology. Conducting these missions at the Koonibba Test Range has allowed AtSpace to accelerate their hybrid propulsion system development. Our world-class facility and experienced team at Southern Launch have played a key role in enabling the development of this Australian space industry leader," Southern Launch CEO, Lloyd Damp, highlighted.
The A01 mission was the inaugural launch attempt of AtSpace’s A01 rocket and has marked a step forward for the company. The launch was conducted from the Koonibba Test Range, developed by Southern Launch in partnership with the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation.
"Seeing our community come together to support this mission has been truly inspiring and a proud moment for First Nations people. Over 30 community members contributed their skills and energy throughout the campaign to help this rocket take flight. Witnessing it take to the sky was unforgettable," Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation CEO, Corey McLennan, commented.
The A01 rocket is being recovered from the Koonibba Test Range by helicopter for post-flight analysis.