Gilmour Space Technologies (GST) is making waves in the aerospace sector with recent achievements in satellite technology and the development of its next-generation orbital launch vehicle. As Australia seeks to solidify its place in the global space market, Gilmour’s progress highlights the nation’s potential in space exploration and technology.

Successful Satellite Operation in Orbit

On September 3, 2025, Gilmour Space announced a significant milestone with the successful in-orbit operation of its Australian-designed satellite bus, ElaraSat MMS-1. Launched aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-14 mission in June 2025, ElaraSat MMS-1 is equipped with a cutting-edge hyperspectral imager developed in collaboration with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). This satellite has completed its platform commissioning and has verified all bus systems, effectively demonstrating reliable S-band and X-band communications.

The modularity of the ElaraSat bus allows for payload adaptability of up to 30 kilograms, making it suitable for various commercial, civil, and defense missions. Notably, the satellite bus is compatible with multiple launch vehicles, including Gilmour’s own Eris rocket, which is currently under development. This achievement underscores Gilmour’s capacity to build sovereign satellite technology and supports the Australian government’s push for enhanced national capabilities in space.

Government Funding Boost for Rocket Engine Development

In a move to bolster its rocket development initiatives, Gilmour Space has secured a generous funding boost of $5 million from the Australian Government under the Industry Growth Program. This investment is specifically aimed at accelerating the development of Gilmour’s next-generation liquid rocket engine for the Eris launch vehicle.

The funding will support advancements in propulsion and fluid engineering technologies, which are critical for launching both commercial and defense payloads into orbit. This aligns seamlessly with the government’s strategy to enhance Australia’s space industry capabilities and commercialize innovative space technologies, paving the way for future growth in the sector.

Orbital Launch Attempts and Challenges

Gilmour Space has been preparing for the maiden flight of its Eris TestFlight-1, an event that marks Australia’s first orbital launch attempt in over 50 years. Initially scheduled for July 2025 at the Bowen Orbital Spaceport, this historic launch has faced its share of challenges. The first attempt in May 2025 was marred by a misfire related to the payload fairing, leading to a necessary launch delay. Fortunately, there were no injuries or damage from the incident.

Despite these setbacks, Gilmour Space remains committed to resolving the issues and is currently in the process of sending a replacement fairing from its Gold Coast factory. Company CEO Adam Gilmour has expressed confidence in the team’s ability to overcome these challenges and maintain their trajectory towards successful launches.

Plans for 2026 Launch Resumption

Following the delays in 2025, Gilmour Space has outlined ambitious plans to return to the launch pad in 2026. CEO Adam Gilmour confirmed that the company is well-capitalized and ready to resume its orbital launch efforts, keen on establishing Australia as a competitive player in the global space launch market. This resilience reflects Gilmour’s commitment to innovation and excellence in aerospace technology.

In addition to its launch vehicle development, Gilmour Space’s ongoing projects align with various advanced technologies, including precision accelerometers and quartz MEMS gyroscopes, which are pivotal for the stability and precision required in aerospace applications. These advancements not only enhance Gilmour’s capabilities but also contribute to the broader ecosystem of Australian aerospace technologies.

Conclusion

Gilmour Space Technologies is at the forefront of Australia’s burgeoning space industry, making significant strides in both satellite operation and rocket engine development. With successful milestones in satellite technology and a robust plan for future launches, the company is poised to play a pivotal role in the global aerospace sector. As Gilmour continues to innovate and expand its capabilities, the future looks bright for Australian space exploration and technology.

With the combination of governmental support and private sector innovation, Gilmour’s journey exemplifies the potential for Australia to emerge as a key player in the international space arena. As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, the advancements in technologies such as the Advanced Sensor Module and ZQXXSGDSS System will likely play a critical role in ensuring the success of Gilmour Space’s ambitious plans.

References

1. Gilmour Space Eyes 2026 Return To Launchpad - Aviation Week (aviationweek.com) - 10/3/2025 Australian startup Gilmour Space Technologies is looking to return to the launch pad next year after the first attempt at an orbit flight …

2. NEWS - Gilmour Space Technologies (www.gspace.com) - 9/5/2025 HAPPENING NOW. LATEST NEWS. Sep 5, 2025. Gilmour Space celebrates successful satellite milestone. Space Connect. Read. Jul 30, 2025 …

3. Gilmour Space Marks Milestone with Australian Satellite in Orbit (www.gspace.com) - 9/3/2025 Gold Coast, QLD, Australia - September 3, 2025 – Gilmour Space Technologies today confirmed the successful in-orbit operation of its …

4. Gilmour receives funding boost from Australian Government (www.space.gov.au) - 7/25/2025 The Queensland-based space firm has received $5 million to accelerate the development of its next-generation liquid rocket engine.

5. Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies is prepping for their first Eris … (news.satnews.com) - 7/24/2025 Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies is prepping for their first Eris test flight on Saturday. July 24, 2025. Share. Share on Facebook. Share.

6. Gilmour Space reschedules Eris Launch to July 27 (spaceanddefense.io) - 7/18/2025 Gilmour Space has scrubbed its planned test launch of its Eris rocket this week. The company advised, “We’re standing down from this week’s launch window.

7. Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies plans maiden flight of Eris … (news.satnews.com) - 7/10/2025 Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies plans maiden flight of Eris Test Flight1 on July 15, nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years. July …

8. Gilmour Space Misfire | May 2025 - YouTube (www.youtube.com) - 5/24/2025 … space industries. What to expect: - Gilmour Space’s mis-fire - The latest Australian Space News - UK Space Industry break-down Don’t miss …