Gilmour Space Technologies today confirmed the successful in-orbit operation of its 100-kilogram satellite platform, ElaraSat MMS-1 (Multi-Mission Satellite-1) — another step forward for Australian space capability.
Launched aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-14 mission in June, the locally designed and built satellite bus carries a hyperspectral imager from CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency.
Since reaching orbit, ElaraSat MMS-1 has:
- Completed platform commissioning
- Verified satellite bus systems are operating as expected
- Demonstrated reliable S-band communications and X-band downlink
“This is a proud moment for our team and partners,” said Mark Grimminck, Head of Satellites at 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.”
Gilmour’s modular ElaraSat bus can be adapted for missions hosting payloads of up to 30 kilograms, and is compatible with a variety of launch vehicles, including its Eris orbital rocket. In July, the company’s Eris TestFlight-1 campaign from Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland also demonstrated progress toward providing end-to-end space access from Australian soil.
With ElaraSat MMS-1 now in orbit (NORAD ID 64539), Gilmour Space is well positioned to deliver integrated satellite missions to global customers from Australia, supporting commercial, civil, and defense programs that require affordable and flexible access to space.