Southern Launch and HyImpulse have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for more missions from the Koonibba Test Range and to explore using the Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex for future launches of HyImpulse’s SL1 orbital vehicle.
This follows the successful maiden launch of HyImpulse’s 11.5-metre-tall single-stage SR75 rocket from Southern Launch’s Koonibba Test Range on 3 May 2024
The launched validated HyImpulse’s propulsion technology, which combines paraffin wax (candle wax) and liquid oxygen. With the successful first lift-off completed, HyImpulse has taken the rocket back to Germany for further analysis, which will help shape the development of their SL-1 orbital rocket and future SR75 launches.
The MoU will see the two companies collaborate on further launches of the SR75 sub-orbital rocket from the Koonibba Test Range. These sub-orbital missions will provide opportunities for local researchers to conduct experiments in micro-gravity without having to go overseas.
Southern Launch and HyImpulse will also work together under the MoU to plan for a launch of HyImpulse’s SL1 orbital vehicle from the Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex once vehicle development is complete.
“The successful lift-off of our sounding rocket was a huge milestone in the development of HyImpulse as a space company. It marks the beginning of our commercial operations and highlights the capabilities of our team and technology,” said HyImpulse co-CEO Mario Kobald. “It was a great team effort to conduct a launch in Australia for a German NewSpace company and we are very happy with the great collaboration with Southern Launch and their professional team.”
Southern Launch says the launch of the SR75-1 mission was a big step forward in the state’s position as the space state for Australia. The successful launch and demonstration of world-class facilities at the Koonibba Test Range signifies to the USD550 billion global space industry that South Australia is open for business.
“The MoU will help secure more jobs in the space industry and support the infrastructure that the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation has developed in partnership with Southern Launch,” said Southern Launch CEO Lloyd Damp.
