Thursday, October 10, 2024

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Bowen Rocket Launch One Step Closer To First Flight

Gilmour Space has successfully completed a major wet dress rehearsal at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland, marking a key milestone towards the launch of the country's first Australian-made orbital rocket later this year.
 
During the test, the Eris rocket was safely loaded with propellant and all launch procedures were executed up to T-10 seconds before lift-off.

The full rehearsal confirmed the performance of critical systems and only minor issues were identified.

These issues included two faulty valves and some minor software reconfigurations.

They are expected to be resolved before the first flight.
 
Director of Launch Vehicles and Satellites at Gilmour Space David Doyle said this rehearsal was a success.

“I cannot overstate the significance of what we’ve accomplished, with only minimal issues detected,” he said.

“This was the final major test to validate the readiness of our rocket, ground systems and crew, while allowing us to address any concerns ahead of launch day. 
 
"At this stage, we expect to resolve all identified issues in the coming weeks. Pending approvals and other unforeseen events, Eris should be ready for launch as soon as we get the green light."

Gilmour Space are currently pending launch permit approval and airspace management clearances from the relevant agencies.

Eris, Australia's first sovereign-made orbital rocket, at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in QLD

Gilmour Space Mission Control during Wet Systems Test 
Photos supplied

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