Mission granted

• The Australian spacetech industry is set to explore new frontiers with a landmark A$52M (US$35.6M) grant deal between 500-backed rocket company Gilmour Space and the country’s federal government as part of the Australian Space Manufacturing Network (ASMN) initiative.
• The goal? To advance the research and commercialization of new space technologies, with more than 30 space companies, universities, and supply chain partners. Founder & CEO Adam Gilmour shared that more local manufacturing will open up more local skills growth and jobs.
• The initiative will establish three new space facilities in Queensland:
  • A common test and manufacturing facility, enabling members to advance their space research and technology development at a lower cost
  • An advanced manufacturing facility for building commercial rockets and satellites, anchored by Gilmour Space
  • An orbital spaceport in North Queensland, that will help bring many of these products to space
• “[This] will also help us build our sovereign capability in manufacturing launch vehicles, satellites, and other commercial space technologies for Australian and international customers,” Adam added.
• The company is currently looking for a location for the ASMN center on the Gold Coast, with plans to start operations in 2024.
• Read the full story here.