Australia stands at the brink of a major advancement in its space initiatives with the approval of the country’s inaugural orbital launch facility license under the Space (Launches & Returns) Act 2018, signalling the green light for the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in Queensland.
Nestled within the Abbot Point State Development Area in north Queensland, the Bowen Orbital Spaceport is the brainchild of local company Gilmour Space Technologies, specializing in commercial orbital launch services.
These services encompass satellite platforms and dedicated/rideshare launches bound for Low Earth Orbits, positioning Australia to embark on its first ventures into space from its own shores, Gilmour Space said in a news release.
The license, bestowed by Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP, underscores the confidence in Gilmour Space Technologies’ technical prowess and sets the stage for Australia’s maiden forays into space, aptly described as ‘bridging Country to Sky’.
In addition to securing the license, the Queensland-based company has obtained approval from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water, clearing the path for operations at the Abbot Point spaceport.
Adam Gilmour, Co-founder and CEO of Gilmour Space, remarked, “The ability to launch our own satellites, on launch vehicles that we own and control, to key orbits in space from Australia, will be a significant capability for our global customers, as well as for our nation and allies.”
Meanwhile, James Gilmour, Co-founder and Head of Launch Operations, highlighted the collaborative efforts that brought the project to fruition.
“It’s been two years since we started the project, engaging with the Juru traditional owners and other stakeholders at the local, state and federal levels. We’ve seen these efforts lead to diversified business opportunities, jobs, and investment in Bowen and greater Whitsunday region; and it will be exciting to see ‘rocket tourism’ emerging to support the local economy,” he explained.
The anticipated Eris TestFlight 1 is slated for launch in the forthcoming months, pending approval of the launch permit by the Australian Space Agency.
The Bowen Orbital Spaceport has received grant funding from the Australian Government as part of the Modern Manufacturing Strategy and enjoys co-funding from the Queensland Government and Gilmour Space.
