Capitalising on numerous advantages – including an expansive landscape and ease of access to desirable orbits – Australia is growing its reputation as a valuable launch and return destination for the international space community.
In this episode of Outback To Orbit, we meet two Aussie companies leading the way with ambitious and responsible launch and return activities on our shores.
Gilmour Space Technologies and Southern Launch are growing their offering of commercial launch and return technologies and services, with support from our grant programs and in collaboration with our Agency’s regulatory branch.
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Listen to Episode 3
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Launched in 2024, Outback To Orbit connects listeners to the people and technologies leading Australia's space future.
Episode 3 | Launch and Return Down Under
Our featured guests for this episode are Amy Featherston from Southern Launch and Adam Williams from Gilmour Space Technologies.
Southern Launch
Amy discusses the successful Earth re-entry and return of space capsules from American company Varda – which is making pharmaceuticals in space – and the development of her company’s mobile rocket launch rail system.
Agency's support
- The Australian Government has invested around $1 million in the company's activities.
- The funding was provided as part of the Australian Space Agency's Supply Chain Capability Improvement Grant.
Gilmour Space Technologies
Adam discusses the Eris rocket program – the company’s effort to develop and launch Australia’s first orbital rocket from right here in our backyard.
Agency's support
- The Australian Government has invested around $6 million in the company's activities.
- The funding was provided as part of the government's Industry Growth Program and the Agency's Moon to Mars Supply Chain Capability Improvement Grants.
Reaching new frontiers with Australia
We meet two Australian companies headed for the Moon, as their cutting-edge technologies help shape the future of space exploration with support from our grant programs.