Local space exploration company Southern Launch welcomed the team from German rocket manufacturer HyImpulse to the EP last week, ready for the launch of the SR75 rocket on Tuesday, 30 April.
Southern Launch’s Communications and Engagement Manager Amy Featherston says the event is one for the history books.
“This’ll be the first launch from the permanent facilities at the Koonibba Test Range, Ms Featherston says.
“It will also be the first time HyImpulse have ever launched this rocket, so they’re testing some new green hybrid rocket propulsion technology which combines candle wax as their solid fuel and liquid oxygen to launch this off into space.”
Guests have been welcomed from all over Australia to see the launch.
“We’ve got the team from Germany, and then we’ve got some VIP guests from all across Australia, and hopefully a lot of people from the Ceduna and Eyre Peninsula communities are out here.
“We’re excited to have lots of people here witness this history-making launch.”
There was a celebration on Sunday, 28 April, to recognise the achievements of everyone involved.
“The Koonibba Test Range we’ve been working on for almost six years in conjunction with the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation – so Sunday was celebrating the launch pad.
“We had members from the Koonibba community, Southern Launch staff, and HyImpulse staff all coming together for a barbeque on the launch pad.”
For those who want to watch the launch, head to the Koonibba township and follow signage from the centre of town to the viewing area.
