Gilmour Space completes wet dress rehearsal ahead of planned launch

Rocket manufacturer and launch provider Gilmour Space Technologies has announced the passing of a major milestone at its north Queensland spaceport, ahead of the planned maiden launch of its Eris rocket this year.

According to a statement from the company on Monday, the wet dress rehearsal test at Bowen Orbital Spaceport saw an Eris rocket safely loaded with propellant, with all launch procedures executed up to T-10 seconds before lift-off. 

(A wet dress rehearsal is likened to a dress rehearsal in theatres before opening night – with “wet” denoting the filling of a propellant tanks.)

Gilmour said its full rehearsal “validated the performance of critical systems, with only minor issues identified… including two faulty valves and some minor software reconfigurations”.

These are expected to be resolved before the initial launch.

“This was the final major test to validate the readiness of our rocket, ground systems and crew, while allowing us to address any concerns ahead of launch day” said the company’s Director of Launch Vehicles and Satellites, David Doyle.

“At this stage, we expect to resolve all identified issues in the coming weeks. Pending approvals and other unforeseen events, Eris should be ready for launch as soon as we get the green light.”

Gilmour said it is still waiting for a launch permit and airspace management clearances.

It’s plans include two test flights then a third, commercial flight, carrying Australian satellites into space.

The venture-backed company announced the close of a $55 million Series D capital raise in February.

Further reading

Gilmour Space raises $55m, Eris rocket heads for space

Gilmour shows off its Eris rocket to PM Albanese

One small step for Gilmour, one giant leap for Australia