Gilmour Space Technologies has been granted Australia’s first orbital launch permit by Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic in conjunction with the Australian Space Agency.
This permit allows the company to proceed with its inaugural Eris rocket launch from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland, as revealed in a news release.
Under the Space (Launches & Returns) Act 2018, an Australian launch permit is required for any object launched from Australia to an altitude exceeding 100 kilometres.
The permit includes specific conditions that must be fulfilled before the launch, along with a mandatory 30-day notification period.
Adam Gilmour, CEO and co-founder of Gilmour Space, described the permit as a significant milestone for the local space industry.
He noted that the team is currently reviewing the permit’s conditions and will announce the anticipated launch date for Eris TestFlight1 in the coming weeks.
Earlier this year, Gilmour’s Bowen Orbital Spaceport received Australia’s first orbital launch facility license, which was announced by Minister Husic and officially opened in April by former Queensland Deputy Premier Cameron Dick.
In September, Gilmour Space successfully conducted a major wet dress rehearsal of its Eris launch vehicle, which was a key step toward launch readiness.
The forthcoming TestFlight1 will be the first of several planned test launches using the Eris rocket, which incorporates new propulsion technologies developed by the Gold Coast-based company.
Since launching its rocket program in 2015, Gilmour Space has expanded to over 200 employees and established a local supply chain involving more than 300 Australian companies.
The company has attracted substantial private investment and received support from local, state, and federal governments while engaging with communities in the region.
According to Gilmour, the Bowen spaceport is one of the few private orbital launch sites globally and will initially provide access to low- and mid-inclination orbits.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins remarked on the significance of the launch approval for Bowen and the Whitsundays region, noting the collaboration between Gilmour Space and local residents.
“Success here isn’t just about reaching orbit—it’s about positioning Bowen as a key player in Australia’s journey to space. This is just the beginning,” Collins noted.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate, who has witnessed Gilmour Space evolve from a small operation in Pimpama to Australia’s largest space manufacturer, emphasised the city’s commitment to supporting local businesses.
“That’s why we’ve invested in our Business Attraction & Expansion programs—to support businesses like Gilmour Space. This homegrown company is reinvesting in itself and in our city, creating high-value jobs and opportunities for the next generation of Gold Coast innovators.”
For further updates on TestFlight1, visit gspace.com/missions.
