The town of Koonibba, situated on the edge of the Nullarbor, has become an essential player in Australia's space industry, marking a significant milestone by hosting the launch of one of the country's largest rockets from a private facility. Collaborating with South Australian launch company, Southern Launch, Koonibba embarked on this journey six years ago with plans to establish a launch pad on a wheat paddock in the state's far west, culminating in the successful launch of Australia's first commercial, space-capable rocket in September 2020.
The Koonibba Community, led by CEO Corey McLennan, has expressed optimism about the future benefits of partnering with space companies, highlighting the unexpected opportunity for overseas customers to visit and engage with the town. The recent launch of the 11.5-metre carbon fibre SR75 rocket by German company HyImpulse garnered attention not only from local residents but also from a crowd of spectators, including VIPs who traveled from various parts of Australia and Europe to witness the historic event.
Moreover, Southern Launch CEO Lloyd Damp emphasized the significance of the launch for the state, envisioning a future where space launch becomes a common occurrence within the next 12 to 18 months. The Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation chairperson, Geraldine Ware, praised the launch as a remarkable achievement for the community and a source of pride for First Nations people, underscoring the collaborative effort of over 30 community members who contributed to the success of the mission. The rocket, named SR75 and part of HyImpulse's Light this Candle mission, incorporates hybrid propulsion technology, employing a combination of solid paraffin fuel and liquid oxygen, with unique capabilities that set it apart in the industry.