A rocket has been launched into space bearing the Northern Territory’s Boundless Possible slogan.
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The commercial sub-orbital rocket was blasted into space from Queensland yesterday as a test for for future permanent launches from the Territory.
Chief Minister Michael Gunner said the Top End has “enormous potential in the space industry” and the launch “is a great example of business, industry and government working together to grow a new and exciting industry in Australia”.
The Northern Territory has made significant inroads in developing a space industry, with Australia’s first commercial space launch facility located in Arnhem Land.
The Government partnered with Black Sky Launch Aerospace, who is currently developing the launch facility in Arnhem Land, to launch the rocket in Tarawera in Queensland, yesterday.
According to an NT Government spokesman, Black Sky Aerospace used the launch to test new technologies and make sure it has the correct processes and procedures in place before commencing larger launches in the Northern Territory.
Along with the Boundless Possible slogan, an Indigenous painting by artist Dorothy Djakangu Yunupingu decorated the cone of the rocket.
The painting called Djulpan tells the story of the seven sisters – the constellation of Djulpan, or Pleiades. The sisters appear at certain times of the year, an indication that the season is right for gathering particular foods.
Deputy Chair from Gumatj Corporation, Djawa Yunupingu said she was proud to be at the launch representing the Gumatj traditional owners.
“It is exciting to see this progress after working on this project for a number of years.
“The Arnhem Space Centre is an exciting opportunity for Gumatj and it opens the door for new opportunities for Yolngu on our country,” she said.
The space industry has emerged as one of the most dynamic and fastest growing sectors of the world economy and the development of the space industry in the Territory will help to diversify the Northern Territory economy and unlock new business and investment opportunities.
Globally the space industry is worth around $300 billion.
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