31.07.2025 02:04
The first indigenous orbital rocket "Eris," produced by Gilmour Space in Australia, fell after staying in the air for 14 seconds during its test flight.
The first indigenous orbital rocket in Australia fell shortly after launch. The rocket named "Eris" was able to stay in the air for 14 seconds.
AUSTRALIA'S FIRST ORBITAL ROCKET FELL DURING TEST FLIGHT
A test flight was conducted for Australia's first indigenous orbital rocket. The rocket named Eris, produced by Gilmour Space, fell shortly after its launch from the Bowen Spaceport located in the Whitsunday Region of Queensland. The rocket was able to stay in the air for 14 seconds. Although the launch was considered a failure as it was the first orbital rocket designed and manufactured in Australia, it was deemed an important step.
"A STRONG RESULT AFTER 18 MONTHS OF LONG WAITING"
In a statement made by Gilmour Space, it was expressed that Eris's 14-second flight is an important step towards making Australia one of the six countries that regularly launch spacecraft into orbit, stating, "The first test flight is a strong result, especially after a long 18-month wait for the launch. It is an important step forward for Australia's sovereign space capability."
The company's CEO, Adam Gilmour, expressed his satisfaction with the launch attempt, saying, "I am happy. Of course, I would have liked a longer flight time, but I am pleased with this."