Southern Launch to host HyImpulse's Pioneering SR75 launch in South Australia

Written by Copernical Team Wednesday, 15 November 2023 10:07

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Sydney, Australia (SPX) Nov 15, 2023

In a significant development for the global aerospace industry, German rocket manufacturer HyImpulse is set to launch its SR75 sounding rocket from the Koonibba Test Range near Ceduna in South Australia in early 2024. This event marks a pivotal moment in space exploration, showcasing the potential of international collaboration and innovative propulsion technologies. The SR75, which employ

Southern Launch to host HyImpulse's Pioneering SR75 launch in South Australia
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Nov 15, 2023

In a significant development for the global aerospace industry, German rocket manufacturer HyImpulse is set to launch its SR75 sounding rocket from the Koonibba Test Range near Ceduna in South Australia in early 2024. This event marks a pivotal moment in space exploration, showcasing the potential of international collaboration and innovative propulsion technologies.

The SR75, which employs HyImpulse's distinctive green hybrid propulsion technology, represents a leap forward in environmentally friendly space access. HyImpulse CEO Mario Kobald emphasized the importance of this mission, stating, "Our mission is to develop a launch vehicle that uses our unique hybrid propulsion technology. Launching our first suborbital rocket from the Koonibba Test Range is a huge milestone for our company and we are looking forward to the learnings that this launch will provide our team."

This collaboration is not just a technological endeavor but also a demonstration of international cooperation in the space industry. Christian Schmierer, Co-CEO of HyImpulse, highlighted this aspect, noting, "Launching HyImpulse's first rocket from the other side of the globe, shows Southern Launch's and HyImpulse's capability of serving a global market in a rapid, efficient, and responsive cooperation from anywhere around the world."

The choice of the Koonibba Test Range, one of the world's largest commercial overland rocket testing ranges, is strategic. It offers unique opportunities for rocket recovery and analysis post-launch, a feature not available with overwater launches. This capability is a key factor in HyImpulse's decision to launch from Australia.

Lloyd Damp, CEO of Southern Launch, expressed pride in this partnership, "HyImpulse are leading the way in the development of hybrid rocket technology. We are proud that our Koonibba Test Range provides this leading company with the opportunity to test their launch vehicle and recover it from our overland range." Southern Launch is handling most aspects of the launch preparation, including regulatory approvals and import of the launch vehicle, allowing HyImpulse to focus on their expertise in vehicle development.

HyImpulse's CTO Ulrich Fischer highlighted the significance of Southern Launch managing the launch, as it enables HyImpulse to concentrate on the vehicle's capabilities and technology. This collaboration underscores Southern Launch's role in propelling the aerospace industry forward. "Southern Launch exists to provide launch services so our industry can keep moving forward at pace. HyImpulse are leaders in their field and we are incredibly excited to play a role in helping them develop their unique launch vehicle that will help our industry continue to evolve and improve," added Lloyd Damp.

The Koonibba Test Range, operated jointly by the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation and Southern Launch, is instrumental in expanding space exploration capabilities from the Southern Hemisphere. It plays a vital role in launching sub-orbital missions and accommodating space technology re-entries.

The SR75 mission's successful launch, scheduled for the first quarter of 2024, is contingent on regulatory approval. This mission symbolizes a significant stride in the evolution of space technology, driven by international cooperation and innovative propulsion methods, positioning both HyImpulse and Southern Launch at the forefront of the burgeoning space industry.