Gilmour Space's Eris fails on first orbital launch attempt

Gilmour Space attempted to launch Australia's first orbital rocket but experienced a quick failure.

Gilmour Space's Eris fails in historic launch attempt

On July 29, 2025, Gilmour Space attempted to mark a significant milestone for Australia by launching the Eris rocket. The launch took place at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport. Unfortunately, the rocket veered off course shortly after lift-off, crashing to the ground just 14 seconds later. Company representatives stated that, while the launch did not reach its intended goals, it still provided important data for future flights. Gilmour Space's CEO Adam Gilmour expressed optimism that this initial test is a valuable step toward improving their systems. He emphasized that much of the technology used in the rocket and the spaceport worked as intended. No injuries or environmental damage were reported as a result of the launch failure.

The failure of Gilmour Space's Eris rocket is a stark reminder of the challenges in aerospace innovation. While it did not achieve its primary objective, the attempt itself represents a noteworthy effort for Australia's expanding role in the global space industry. This launch has also drawn parallels to earlier failures faced by other companies in the field. Each unsuccessful launch teaches vital lessons that can propel future successes. The push from private companies like Gilmour Space aims to elevate Australia's standing in a competitive arena dominated by larger players. As the company looks to learn from this setback, its long-term vision remains ambitious, focusing on establishing a reliable launch vehicle capable of supporting satellite missions.

Highlights

Gilmour Space's journey continues as it aims for future success despite initial setbacks.