Australia's aerospace sector marked a significant milestone with the maiden test flight of the Eris rocket, developed by Gilmour Space Technologies. The launch took place at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in Queensland, Australia, on July 29, 2025. The Eris rocket, standing at 23 meters tall and weighing 30 tonnes, is powered by a hybrid propulsion system combining liquid and solid propellants. During the test flight, the rocket achieved approximately 14 seconds of flight time before returning to Earth. This event represents Australia's first attempt to launch an orbital-class rocket from its own soil in over five decades.
Gilmour Space Technologies, founded in 2013, has been at the forefront of developing Australia's sovereign space capabilities. The company has been working towards this launch for several years, overcoming various technical and regulatory challenges. The successful lift-off, despite the short duration, provides valuable data that will inform future developments and improvements in the country's space launch capabilities.
CEO Adam Gilmour expressed optimism following the test flight, stating, "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." He emphasized the importance of the data collected during the flight for refining future missions.
The Bowen Orbital Spaceport, a privately operated facility, played a crucial role in this achievement. The spaceport is strategically located to minimize risk to populated areas and to take advantage of the Earth's rotation, providing an optimal launch trajectory. The successful test flight not only demonstrates the technical capabilities of Gilmour Space Technologies but also highlights the potential for Australia to become a significant player in the global space industry.
Looking ahead, Gilmour Space Technologies plans to analyze the data from this test flight to identify areas for improvement. The company aims to conduct additional test flights in the coming months, with the goal of achieving a successful orbital launch in the near future. This endeavor underscores Australia's growing commitment to developing its space industry and contributing to the global exploration and utilization of space.