South Australia’s space industry is off to a stellar start in 2025, with local space technologies launching into orbit earlier this month aboard SpaceX’s Transporter 12 Rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

Among the 131 payloads onboard, three key projects from South Australian space companies have helped propel the state’s space industry into the global spotlight:

  • Fleet Space Technologies launched its Centauri 7 and 8 satellites, boosting its network to support the growth of its ExoSphere mineral exploration platform.
  • Neumann Space deployed the latest version of its Neumann Drive thruster into space—an exciting breakthrough in electric propulsion that could transform deep-space exploration.
  • Spire, in collaboration with Myriota, launched two LEMUR 3 satellites to expand Myriota’s growing constellation of IoT satellites.

The mission isn’t just about getting payloads into space—it’s also setting the stage for a historic first. Australia’s first commercial spacecraft re-entry is on the horizon, with Varda Space Industries’ also launching its W-2 capsule on the rideshare mission.

The capsule is orbiting Earth for a few weeks before its expected re-entry and touch down at the Koonibba Test Range.

Adelaide-based Southern Launch has played a key role in securing the necessary Australian approvals for the mission and will oversee the re-entry and recovery process.

Dr Catherine Grace, Director Space at SASIC, commented on the significance of the launches for the state.

“These achievements highlight the immense momentum building within South Australia’s space industry,” she said. “With these cutting-edge technologies and strong international partnerships, South Australia is cementing its position as a hub for space innovation and industry growth.”