AUSTRALIA’S FIRST HOMEGROWN ROCKET CRASHES AFTER LIFTOFF

Australia’s ambitious leap into space exploration faced a significant setback as the country’s first indigenously built rocket, Eris, crashed just 14 seconds after takeoff. The 23-metre launch vehicle failed to gain adequate thrust and plummeted back to the ground, erupting into flames shortly after impact. The dramatic incident occurred at Bowen Spaceport in northern Queensland, drawing attention from space enthusiasts and officials alike.

Despite the failure, Gilmour Space Technologies, the company behind the rocket, maintained an optimistic outlook. CEO Adam Gilmour described the event as a “milestone moment” for the country’s space industry. While the rocket’s trajectory didn’t go as planned, Gilmour emphasized the significance of the achievement, saying that simply reaching the launchpad was a breakthrough for Australian aerospace engineering.

The Eris rocket was designed to carry small satellites into low Earth orbit, marking a new chapter in Australia’s space aspirations. The three-stage hybrid rocket used a mix of solid and liquid propellants a novel approach that the company hoped would combine efficiency with environmental sustainability. Its failure has raised questions, but experts note that trial and error is a natural part of space innovation.

According to footage released from the launch site, the rocket struggled shortly after ignition, failing to achieve proper vertical acceleration. The engines appeared unstable, and within seconds, the rocket listed and fell back to the launch pad, resulting in a fiery explosion. Emergency protocols were activated, and no injuries were reported at the scene.

The Australian Space Agency responded quickly to the incident, offering support for the investigation and encouraging the team to continue development. Officials stressed that setbacks are common in early-stage rocketry and praised the engineers for taking bold steps. The Agency also reiterated its commitment to supporting commercial spaceflight initiatives.

Public reaction was mixed, with some expressing disappointment while others rallied behind the Gilmour team. Social media platforms were filled with messages of support, many comparing the event to early failures by space pioneers such as SpaceX and NASA. Some noted that setbacks often precede breakthroughs in the aerospace sector.

Technical teams are now analyzing telemetry data and debris to determine what went wrong. Gilmour Space has promised a transparent review and plans to release findings in the coming weeks. Engineers will likely focus on engine performance and control system stability, which appeared to falter during ascent.

This was the first full-scale test of the Eris vehicle, and more tests were expected in 2025. The company had previously conducted successful static engine firings, and the partially successful launch shows that some systems functioned as designed. Gilmour Space remains committed to refining its technology and preparing for future missions.