Australian aerospace history was made above the Koonibba Test Range. At 09:22 AM, a 12.2-meter rocket, the A01, built by Brisbane-based AtSpace, roared skyward and soared to a record altitude of nearly 80 kilometers—the highest any commercially developed Australian rocket has ever flown.
The flawless four-and-a-half-minute mission marked the inaugural flight for AtSpace and served as a critical demonstration of the company’s unique hybrid propulsion technology. The rocket performed as intended before returning safely to Earth, validating years of dedicated development.
“This launch proves our technology is viable and is a pivotal step as we progress toward our goal of orbital launch vehicles,” said AtSpace COO Nick Chang. “It’s a testament to the incredible work of our team.”
The successful launch was enabled by Southern Launch’s Koonibba Test Range, a world-class facility developed in partnership with the local First Nations community. Southern Launch CEO Lloyd Damp highlighted the collaborative effort: “Our experienced team and facility have played a key role in accelerating AtSpace’s development, supporting the growth of an Australian space industry leader.”
Beyond the technical triumph, the mission was a powerful moment of community partnership. Over 30 members of the Koonibba community contributed their skills and support to the launch campaign.
Corey McLennan, CEO of the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation, described the profound significance: “Seeing our community come together to help this rocket take flight was inspiring and a proud moment for First Nations people. Witnessing it soar into the sky was unforgettable.”
The event stands as a dual milestone: a major leap forward for Australian aerospace innovation and a landmark example of collaboration between the space industry and Traditional Custodians, setting a powerful precedent for future endeavors.
