AtSpace conducts successful launch of Australian-made A01 rocket at the Southern Launch Koonibba Test Range
The A01 AtSpace rocket lifting off from the Koonibba Test Range
On 27 November 2025, AtSpace, a Brisbane-based rocket manufacturer, entered the rocketry record books by successfully launching their Australian-made A01 rocket higher than any other Australian commercial rocket has gone before.
At 09:22 AM, the 12.2m tall vehicle rocketed from Southern Launch’s Koonibba Test Range, performed perfectly and flew close to the target altitude of 80km. The four-and-a-half-minute flight validated AtSpace’s hybrid propulsion technology before safely returning to Earth as planned.
AtSpace COO Nick Chang says, ‘Our team at AtSpace has been developing our unique hybrid rocket technology for many years. This successful launch proves that our technology is viable and is a great step forward as we move toward developing our orbital launch vehicles.’
The A01 mission was the inaugural launch attempt of AtSpace’s A01 rocket and marks an incredible step forward as AtSpace continues to develop their innovative hybrid rocket engines here in Australia.
Southern Launch CEO Lloyd Damp says, ‘We are incredibly proud to have supported AtSpace in the development and launch of their innovative Australian A01 rocket technology. Conducting these missions at the Koonibba Test Range has allowed AtSpace to accelerate their hybrid propulsion system development. Our world-class facility and experienced team at Southern Launch have played a key role in enabling the development of this Australian space industry leader.’
This launch was conducted from the Koonibba Test Range, developed by Southern Launch in partnership with the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation.
Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation CEO, Corey McLennan says, ‘Seeing our community come together to support this mission has been truly inspiring and a proud moment for First Nations people. Over 30 community members contributed their skills and energy throughout the campaign to help this rocket take flight. Witnessing it take to the sky was unforgettable.’
The A01 rocket is being recovered from the Koonibba Test Range by helicopter for post-flight analysis
