The 100kg satellite was originally launched in June via SpaceX, but the company confirms its successful commissioning. Specifically, the operation of the satellite bus systems and reliable S-band communications and X-band downlinks.
“This is a proud moment for our team and partners,” said Mark Grimminck, Head of Satellites at the Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space.
“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.”
MMS-1
ElaraSat is the Gilmour Space Technologies platform for a range of missions in orbit, hosting payloads of up to 30 kilograms.
This first mission, MMS-1, carries a hyperspectral imager from CSIRO. This is Australia’s national science agency. The system will monitor water quality from space.
Launch
The satellite launched on 23 June on the SpaceX Falcon 9.
The Transporter-14 mission headed to low-Earth orbit from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
Gilmour Space Technologies
In terms of its own rocket programme, the company cleared the last regulatory hurdle before an Australian launch in March 2025. It received final airspace approvals from the country’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and Airservices Australia.
The Eris Rocket completed the maiden test launch of Australia’s first locally designed and built orbital rocket in July. It was from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland. It uses a hybrid propulsion technology.
Image: Gilmour Space Satellite Operations Centre, Gold Coast
See also: Australian orbital rocket launch clears last hurdle
