Gilmour Space has been granted a launch facility licence for its Bowen Orbital Spaceport in north Queensland.

The licence, issued by Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic, is the first for an orbital launch facility in Australia. The Spaceport is located within the Abbot Point State Development Area.

The Queensland-based rocket manufacturer and launch services provider is planning the first test flight of its three-stage Eris rocket this year.

Gilmour Space still requires a separate launch permit for Eris TestFlight 1. It is working with the Agency’s Office of the Space Regulator to demonstrate the launch satisfies the criteria of the Space (Launches and Returns) Act 2018.

The Eris Block 1 launch vehicle contains a hybrid propulsion system for the first and second stages, and a liquid propulsion system for the third stage.

Gilmour Space is engaging with the Juru traditional owners, as well as other local stakeholders, regarding the use of the launch facility.

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Our department recognises the First Peoples of this Nation and their ongoing cultural and spiritual connections to the lands, waters, seas, skies, and communities.

We Acknowledge First Nations Peoples as the Traditional Custodians and Lore Keepers of the oldest living culture and pay respects to their Elders past and present. We extend that respect to all First Nations Peoples.