🚀 A New Chapter in Australian Spaceflight
Australia is finally stepping into the spotlight of global space exploration. On May 15, 2025, Gilmour Space Technologies will launch Eris, the first orbital rocket entirely designed and built in Australia.
This mission, which lifts off from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland, will mark the nation’s first orbital launch in more than 50 years.
🛰️ The Eris Rocket: Innovation in Motion
🚀 Hybrid Propulsion Breakthrough
Eris stands 25 meters tall and weighs 35 tonnes. It uses a three-stage design, powered by a hybrid propulsion system created by Gilmour’s engineers. Unlike traditional rockets, the first two stages burn solid fuel with a liquid oxidizer, while the third stage uses a liquid engine fueled by kerosene and oxygen.
🛰️ Small Satellite Capability
This rocket can carry payloads of up to 305 kg into low Earth orbit. As a result, Eris meets the growing demand for small satellite launches around the world.
Eris was designed and manufactured in Australia. Picture: Gilmour Space Technologies
🌐 Bowen Orbital Spaceport: Australia’s Gateway to Space
Located in the Abbot Point State Development Area, the Bowen Orbital Spaceport plays a crucial role. It gives Australia access to various orbital paths, making it a strategic hub for the southern hemisphere.
Furthermore, Gilmour Space built and operates the facility—making it the first of its kind in the country.
Anthony Albanese visited the company’s manufacturing facility on the Gold Coast in May 2023. Picture: Dan Peled / NCA NewsWire
🧪 TestFlight1: A Symbolic Beginning
The first mission, called TestFlight1, will carry a camera and a jar of Vegemite—a light-hearted tribute to Aussie culture. While success isn’t guaranteed, the company hopes the rocket will reach orbit.
🎙️ CEO Speaks Out
Adam Gilmour, the company’s CEO, admits that launching successfully on the first try is rare. Still, he believes their design and testing give Eris a strong chance.
💡 Pioneering Australia’s Space Industry
Brothers Adam and James Gilmour founded the company in 2015. Since then, Gilmour Space Technologies has raised over $140 million and built a team of more than 200 professionals.
By developing their own rockets and spaceport, they aim to reduce Australia’s reliance on foreign launch services and inspire a new era of homegrown innovation. Dailyscitech
🌤️ Launch Details and Viewing Opportunities
📅 When and Where
The launch is scheduled for May 15, between 7:30 AM and 5:30 PM AEST. Although the weather looks favorable, delays are still possible due to technical factors. Dailyscitech
👀 How to Watch
Local residents and visitors in the Bowen region may get a chance to witness this historic launch. Gilmour Space is expected to announce official viewing locations soon. Dailyscitech
🌌 Final Thought
Could this launch mark the beginning of a new space age for Australia? Join the conversation and share your thoughts below! Dailyscitech
