Gilmour Space Technologies has confirmed that its 100 kilogram satellite platform, ElaraSat MMS 1, is operating successfully in orbit after being launched in June on SpaceX’s Transporter 14 mission.
The company announced on Wednesday that it has completed commissioning of the platform, verified all satellite bus systems, and demonstrated stable S band communications as well as an X band downlink. “ElaraSat MMS 1 is designed for multiple missions — and this first flight shows how Australia can build expertise in sovereign satellite technology while paving the way for future missions,” said Mark Grimminck, Head of Satellites at Gilmour Space.
The ElaraSat bus, designed and built in Australia, is modular and can be adapted for missions carrying payloads of up to 30 kilograms. It is also compatible with different launch vehicles, including Gilmour’s own Eris rocket. The satellite is currently carrying a hyperspectral imager provided by a research organisation.
This milestone follows the maiden test flight of the company’s Eris rocket on July 30 from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland. The three stage rocket, measuring 23 metres, achieved 23 seconds of engine burn and 14 seconds of flight time during its first attempt. “Getting off the pad and into flight is a huge step forward for any new rocket program,” said CEO Adam Gilmour after the test. “This was the first real test of our rocket systems, our propulsion technology, and our spaceport — and it proved that much of what we’ve built works.”
The company said that both the satellite and the rocket test demonstrate significant progress in Australia’s growing space sector, while setting the stage for future missions and expanded capabilities.
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