Gilmour Space Technologies has completed the maiden test launch of Australia's first locally designed and built orbital rocket. Despite the failed launch of its Eris rocket, Gilmour Space remains upbeat about the program, comparing it favourably with the initial efforts of some other launch companies
The 23-meter, 30-tonne Eris rocket, powered by new hybrid propulsion technology, had lifted off from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland, achieving approximately 14 seconds of flight.
"Getting off the pad and into flight is a huge step forward for any new rocket program. This was the first real test of our rocket systems, our propulsion technology, and our spaceport — and it proved that much of what we've built works," Gilmour stated.
Importantly, there were no injuries to any person and no adverse environmental impacts.
The TestFlight 1 campaign was the first integrated attempt of an orbital-class rocket designed and built entirely in Australia. It also marked the first use of the newly licensed Bowen Orbital Spaceport — Australia's first commercial orbital launch site, built by Gilmour Space to support future missions.
"Clearing the tower was a major milestone for our team. It showed that Australia can design, build, and launch rockets right here at home," Gilmour affirmed.
Eris was developed almost entirely in-house — including propulsion, structures, avionics, software, and the spaceport itself — allegedly on a fraction of the budget available to most global launch companies.
"Every test, especially the first, is a learning opportunity," Gilmour commented. "Congratulations to our talented team for getting us this far. Onward to TestFlight 2."
As part of this campaign, Gilmour Space worked closely with many stakeholders and regulators — including the Australian Space Agency, Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Air Services Australia, Maritime authorities, and others — to help shape and navigate the rules needed to safely launch rockets from Australia for the first time.
Initial data has indicated that key systems performed well until the anomaly, including ignition, liftoff, first-stage thrust, range tracking and telemetry. The team is now reviewing flight data to understand the cause of the anomaly that led to early termination, with lessons already being applied to the next vehicle, which is in production.
The team will now review flight data and apply lessons learned to the next Eris rocket, with plans to launch again.