Local company launching Whalers Way into the space race

As Southern Launch eyes a maiden orbital launch next year, they’re seeking approval for their two launch sites – the Koonibba test range and the Whalers Way orbital launch complex.

The Advertiser reports local, state and federal approvals would support a multi-million-dollar investment in infrastructure at both sites.

This would give South Australia an advantage in the space race as launch facilities worldwide are at capacity.

Southern Launch chief executive Lloyd Damp says there’s huge potential for Whalers Way and South Australia to capitalise on the congestion of other launch sites, but the site still requires approximately $45 million of investment.

He hopes the company’s first orbital launch will be taking off mid-to-late next year.