Lifting off at 9:22am, the 12.2-metre hybrid-propulsion rocket performed to plan, reaching close to its target altitude of 80 kilometres before safely returning to Earth after a four-and-a-half-minute flight.
The mission marks the highest altitude ever reached by an Australian commercial rocket and provides crucial validation of AtSpace’s hybrid engine technology.
AtSpace chief operating officer Nick Chang said the launch was the result of years of focused development, saying, “Our team has been developing our unique hybrid rocket technology for many years. This successful launch proves that our technology is viable and is a great step forward as we move toward developing our orbital launch vehicles.”
The mission was the first test flight of the A01 rocket and represents a significant leap in AtSpace’s efforts to mature its propulsion systems and demonstrate sovereign launch capability from Australian soil.
Southern Launch CEO Lloyd Damp said the company was proud to support the breakthrough, adding, “We are incredibly proud to have supported AtSpace in the development and launch of their innovative Australian A01 rocket technology. Conducting these missions at the Koonibba Test Range has allowed AtSpace to accelerate their hybrid propulsion system development.”
He said the world-class range facilities and experienced operations team had played a key role in enabling AtSpace’s progress. The launch was conducted in partnership with the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation, which co-developed the test range with Southern Launch.
Corey McLennan, CEO of the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation, said the mission was a source of deep pride, “Seeing our community come together to support this mission has been truly inspiring and a proud moment for First Nations people. Over 30 community members contributed their skills and energy to help this rocket take flight. Witnessing it take to the sky was unforgettable.”
The A01 rocket is being recovered by helicopter for detailed post-flight analysis.
Southern Launch provides end-to-end mission services for global customers, including orbital and suborbital launches, hypersonic flight testing, re-entry missions and comprehensive range management.
The company, headquartered in Adelaide, operates the Koonibba Test Range and the Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex.
Founded in 2021, AtSpace is focused on advancing Australian-developed space technology and contributing to the global space industry.
The company specialises in dedicated launch services and hybrid propulsion systems, and has also developed viable orbit-insertion technologies, including guidance, navigation, control, telemetry and tracking systems.