Varda Space Industries and Southern Launch announced a partnership to conduct re-entry operations at the Koonibba Test Range.
The Koonibba Test Range, which Southern Launch operates in partnership with the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation, offers over 23,000 square kilometres of uninhabited land to accept the re-entry of in-space manufacturing capsules.
US based Varda Space Industries will use the range to conduct a re-entry operation as soon as its second orbital mission, scheduled for mid-2024.
"In-space manufacturing is the next evolution of humanity’s industrial capacity, and elements produced in-orbit have the potential to change the course of history," said Lloyd Damp, Southern Launch Chief Executive Officer.
"The opportunities for South Australia are immense. It’s likely that by the end of this decade everyday Australians will use products with parts manufactured in orbit.
"This makes space the resource industry of the future and we have the potential to expand on Australia’s high-tech manufacturing industry and develop the consumer end products right here in Australia.’
The first re-entry of a Varda Space Industries capsule to the Koonibba Test Range is scheduled for mid-2024 subject to regulatory approvals.