AtSpace A01 reaches record suborbital altitude from Koonibba Test Range

by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Nov 27, 2025

AtSpace, a Brisbane-based rocket manufacturer, has launched its Australian-made A01 rocket from Southern Launchs Koonibba Test Range, reaching a higher altitude than any previous Australian commercial rocket. The vehicle flew close to its planned target of 80 km during the test mission.

The 12.2 m tall A01 lifted off at 09:22 local time and completed a flight lasting around four and a half minutes. The mission profile included ascent to the suborbital target altitude, validation of the hybrid propulsion system in flight, and a controlled return to Earth as planned.

AtSpace COO Nick Chang said, 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 first launch attempt of the A01 rocket and represents a major step in AtSpaces program to mature its hybrid rocket engines in Australia. Data from the flight will support the design and testing of future orbital launch vehicles that build on the A01 architecture.

Southern Launch CEO Lloyd Damp said, 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.

The launch took place at the Koonibba Test Range, which Southern Launch developed in partnership with the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation. The facility provides a remote land range for suborbital missions and recovery operations.

Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation CEO Corey McLennan said, 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.

After the flight, AtSpace and Southern Launch teams began recovery of the A01 rocket by helicopter from the Koonibba Test Range for post-flight inspection and analysis. The recovered vehicle and flight data will be used to refine the hybrid propulsion system and mission operations for future launches.