Australian rocket launch wiped off by nose cone problem
Technical glitch detected
Gilmour Space Technologies reported that an electrical fault mistakenly triggered the opening mechanism of the carbon-fibre nose cone during pre-flight testing. This nose cone is crucial for shielding the payload during the rocket's ascent through the Earth's atmosphere.
Incident overview
The mishap occurred before the vehicle was fueled at the company's spaceport near Bowen, approximately 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) north of Brisbane. Gilmour's CEO, Adam Gilmour, reassured that both the rocket and the team are safe, expressing disappointment but emphasising safety as the top priority.
Moving forward
The team will work to identify the issue with the 23-meter (75-foot) Eris rocket, designed for launching satellites into low-Earth orbit. A replacement nose cone is expected to be transported to the launch site shortly.
Rocket specifications
The fully fueled rocket weighs 30 tonnes and features a hybrid propulsion system that uses solid inert fuel and a liquid oxidizer. If successful, this launch would mark the first time an Australian-made rocket is sent into orbit from Australian soil.
Team resilience
Communications chief Michelle Gilmour acknowledged the team's disappointment but noted that setbacks are common in rocket development. The initial launch attempt had also been delayed a day prior due to a bug in the external power system.
Future plans
Gilmour Space Technologies, with a workforce of 230 employees, aims to commence commercial launches by late 2026 or early 2027. The company has been developing rockets for a decade and is supported by investors, including venture capital group Blackbird and pension fund HESTA.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Al Etihad
a day ago
- Al Etihad
Etihad brings its flagship A350 to Sydney with private business suites featuring sliding doors
2 June 2025 14:51 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Etihad Airways is set to elevate its Sydney to Abu Dhabi service with the introduction of the Airbus A350-1000, bringing enhanced comfort, more premium seating and innovation to its important Australian 1 October 2025, the A350 will join the Sydney schedule on select flights, complementing the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner currently serving the route, with both aircraft offering the latest Business Suites. From 31 January 2026, Etihad will fully transition its 10 weekly Sydney services to A350 operations, offering guests a next-generation travel experience, and Melbourne will be served daily by Etihad's latest 787-9 aircraft featuring Business Suites and increased premium De, Etihad's Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said: 'We are delighted to bring more premium travel options to Australia with the arrival of our A350 on this important route. When the schedule is fully deployed early next year, we will have grown overall seat availability by ten per cent, and premium seat count by over 20 per cent.'We have increased our flight frequencies to Sydney this year, offering guests greater flexibility and enhanced connectivity across our expanding global network. This growth provides more seamless travel options to key destinations in Europe, the Middle East and Africa and also welcomes more visitors to our home in Abu Dhabi, where they can enjoy our exclusive stopover programme, featuring one or two-night complimentary stays at a premium hotel.'Etihad's A350 is setting new standards for air travel, with increased innovation and by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the Airbus A350 is one of the most efficient aircraft types in the world, with 25 per cent less fuel burn and CO2 emissions than previous models. The aircraft also features Etihad's newest cabin interior, infused with thoughtful design elevated Business Class is home to 44 Business Studios, each with a sliding door providing each guest with enhanced privacy within their suite. In addition to facing forward with direct aisle access, every Business Class seat is designed for maximum comfort and converts into a fully flat bed of 79 inches in length, with ample storage for convenience. Noise-cancelling headphones and an 18.5-inch TV screen provide a cinematic experience to enjoy Etihad's extensive inflight entertainment offering. The Business seats also feature a built-in wireless charging dock and Bluetooth headphone pairing. The A350 is also home to 327 Economy Smart Seats with an innovative recline, 13-inch touch screen with Bluetooth headset pairing. All guests can also take advantage of complimentary Chat packages on Wi-Fi or opt for full surfing throughout the flight.
Filipino Times
4 days ago
- Filipino Times
PTIC, PBC DNE, and DMJ Ecospace collaborate for VIP networking dinner with Design Philippines delegates in Dubai
In a bid to strengthen the presence of Filipino design in the UAE's construction and interiors industry, the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) and Philippine Business Council Dubai & Northern Emirates (PBC DNE), in collaboration with DMJ Ecospace, hosted a VIP Premier Networking Dinner featuring the Design Philippines delegation. The gathering took place on May 28, 2025, at Salties Aloft Hotel in Deira, Dubai. The event welcomed an esteemed roster of guests from both the Philippine government and the UAE-based business community, including Consul General Marford Angeles, Vice Consul Aleah, PTIC Commissioner Vichael Roaring, and Ms. Marjo Evio, Head of Delegation from CITEM. Also in attendance were renowned Filipino designer and curator Mr. Ito Kish and distinguished personalities Ms. Natasha Carella and Ms. Bobby Carella, who extended an invitation for Design Philippines to participate in Downtown Design 2025. The evening brought together a select group of developers, architects, consultants, procurement heads, interior designers, and contractors. It served as a platform for the Design Philippines delegates to understand the UAE market, build strategic connections, and share their brand stories and product innovations with key industry stakeholders. One of the most memorable moments of the night was a tribute to Mr. Wajih Nakkash, Founder of Nakkash Gallery, a pioneer in bringing premium Philippine-made furniture to the region. His daughter, Ms. Aya Nakkash, who now leads Nakkash Contracts, was also recognized. Ms. Marilou Lorenzo Joson, Managing Director of DMJ Ecospace, expressed heartfelt gratitude to her former mentor and the Nakkash family, whom she worked with for 19 years. Guests were introduced to ten outstanding Design Philippines companies that showcased their world-class craftsmanship and creativity. These included Arksmith, Aerostone, 51 All Weather Furniture, Red Slab Pottery, Prizmic & Brill, South Sea Veneer, Studio Moodism, Uratex, Mindanao Pearl, and Kit Silver. Their displays featured a wide range of products—ranging from furniture and ceramics to home accents and design materials—highlighting the innovation and artistry of Filipino makers. Adding further insight to the evening was a keynote from Mr. Randip Dhingra, Founder of World Bazaar Luxury Outdoor, who shared valuable strategies on curating and sustaining a successful luxury multi-brand showroom in Dubai. Over 30 companies from the UAE design and construction industry were in attendance, including Moma International Design, Godwin Austen Johnson, NEB, WA Interiors, XBD Collectives, The Parker Company, 1508 London, Monarca International, Play Middle East, and TAG 91.1, among others. Their presence underscored a strong and growing interest in Filipino creativity and collaborative opportunities within the region.
Hi Dubai
5 days ago
- Hi Dubai
MoIAT Partners with Sinaha to Boost Emirati-Made Products Through Digital Platform
The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) has partnered with Sinaha to launch a national digital platform aimed at promoting Emirati-made products and strengthening the UAE's industrial sector. Announced during the Make it in the Emirates Forum in Abu Dhabi, the partnership will see Sinaha develop a platform dedicated to showcasing goods bearing the 'Made in the Emirates' mark. The platform will serve as a digital gateway connecting manufacturers with consumers, investors, and talent across the UAE. As part of the initiative, MoIAT will also oversee the launch of the Walaa' platform — a loyalty program designed to engage media, influencers, and community groups in promoting local products and encouraging a culture of national consumption. The move aligns with the UAE's National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, focusing on digital innovation, public-private collaboration, and increased support for SMEs and industrial employment. Osama Amir Fadhel, Assistant Under-Secretary at MoIAT, said the partnership reinforces the ministry's commitment to enhancing the visibility and competitiveness of national products. 'Marketing is as vital as manufacturing. This collaboration will highlight the quality of Emirati goods and boost investor confidence,' he noted. Sinaha's Chairman, Mohammed bin Salem bin Kardous Al Ameri, echoed the sentiment, stating the alliance marks a pivotal step in unifying marketing and industrial growth strategies. 'We're building an ecosystem that drives demand, expands production, and fuels economic development,' he said. The initiative will also integrate AI-driven tools to analyse consumer behaviour and support the creation of targeted awareness campaigns, reinforcing the role of digital transformation in advancing the UAE's industrial vision. News Source: Emirates News Agency
