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TL;DR

Gilmour Space launched Australia’s first homegrown orbital rocket Eris for a whopping 14 seconds before it failed. They call it a success, spin it as “learning,” and promise another go in 6 to 8 months.

The launch was more about optics (and Vegemite) than orbit. Meanwhile, they’ve taken in tens of millions in public and private funds, built their own spaceport, and helped write Australia’s launch rules, all without yet reaching space.

Orbital Vegemite

Let me assure you, Australia has truly vaulted into the space age, after roughly 14 seconds of flight. Gilmour Space thoughtfully decided to debut the Eris Block 1 rocket at Bowen on July 30, 2025, risking only smoke and a jar of Vegemite.

Of course, they call 14 seconds of liftoff a “giant leap” for Australian space. That’s like calling your first attempt at souffle a Michelin-worthy success after it collapsed. The CEO concedes “space is hard” (thanks, Adam), then reminds us that even SpaceX needed a few tries. Allright, Allright!

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