The announcement follows the final regulatory approvals from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and Airservices Australia, clearing the last procedural steps required for the mission. This achievement represents years of development by the Gold Coast-based aerospace company, which has engineered both the Eris launch vehicle and the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland.

Last year, Gilmour Space secured Australia's first orbital launch facility license for its Bowen spaceport and later obtained the nation's first Australian Launch Permit for Eris TestFlight 1 in November. Now, with airspace permissions secured and formal notification sent to the Australian Space Agency, the company is finalizing preparations for liftoff.

"This will be the first attempt of an Australian rocket to reach orbit from Australian soil," said Adam Gilmour, co-founder and CEO of Gilmour Space. The company is supported by key investors, including Blackbird, Main Sequence, Fine Structure Ventures, Queensland Investment Corporation, and superannuation funds like HESTA and Hostplus.

As the March 15 launch window approaches, Mr. Gilmour provided insights into the realities of rocket launches for those unfamiliar with the process:

First, launch delays-commonly referred to as 'scrubs'-are a routine occurrence in spaceflight. These can extend from hours to days or even weeks due to weather, technical considerations, or other factors. "Safety is always the top priority. We will only launch when we're fully prepared and when conditions allow," he emphasized.

Second, first launches are notoriously challenging. Reaching orbit is a formidable engineering feat, and historically, most private rocket companies have needed multiple attempts to succeed. "SpaceX, for example, achieved orbit on its fourth try. Whether we clear the launch pad, reach max Q, or make it all the way to space, every second of flight will provide critical data to enhance the rocket's future reliability and performance," he explained.

Third, developing independent launch capabilities is crucial for Australia's future in space. Establishing a domestic space launch sector means new high-tech jobs, improved national security, economic benefits, and greater technological sovereignty. "Currently, only six countries regularly launch rockets using their own technology. Australia has the potential to join their ranks," Mr. Gilmour noted.

Finally, he acknowledged the dedication of the Gilmour Space team: "I want to extend my gratitude to our incredible team for their hard work and perseverance in reaching this historic moment. Regardless of the outcome, you have already made history-we are now building rockets in Australia, and this is just the beginning."

Related Links
Gilmour Space
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