Southern Launch has signed an agreement to launch the first space rocket from the Koonibba test range in South Australia.
It is said that the Federal Environment Minister’s decision on the proposed new program is due next Monday.
This rocket, which will be launched in 2025 jointly with Reaction Dynamics, a Canadian company that provides space services in South Australia, is considered to be the first rocket to reach space from that land.
Four rocket launches have been conducted for the first time in 2020 from the Koonibba test site, which is considered the largest test site in the southern hemisphere with an area of 41,000 square kilometers.
The goal of this new mission is to take the rocket 125 kilometers above the Earth’s surface, meaning it will reach space, said Amy Featherston, Southern Launch communications and media manager.
The project is located about 30 kilometers from Port Lincoln and has faced significant opposition from local residents and environmental groups.
Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek is assessing the potential impact on endangered and migratory species as well as Australian waters.
If he approves the proposal, it will go to State Planning Minister Nick Champion, who will need the consent of both to implement it.
