Southern Launch’s third attempt at firing TiSPACE Hapith I rocket into space goes up in flames

It was third time unlucky for SA space start-up firm Southern Launch – as what would have been the first rocket launch from Australia in 50 years went horribly wrong.

It was third time unlucky for South Australian space start-up Southern Launch after their rocket caught fire on Thursday afternoon.

Two previous attempts to launch the Taiwanese TiSPACE rocket from its Whaler’s Way range on Friday and Wednesday were thwarted by high winds and technical issues.

In a statement, the company said the fire broke out during the launch operation at 4.09pm.

“During ignition, the launch vehicle suffered an internal fault causing the vehicle to catch alight,” the statement said.

Southern Launch’s third attempt at firing TiSPACE Hapith I rocket into space went up in flames on Thursday. Supplied: Sleaford resident David Farlam

“The fire was contained to the launch pad and was attended to by the South Australian Country Fire Service, who were onsite. No people or the environment were put at risk.”

Admirers, enthusiasts and media had again gathered to catch a glimpse of what would be the first rocket to leave Australia in 50 years, with some setting up deck chairs and gazebos and settling in for the spectacle.

The rocket range, on coastal land about 32km south of Port Lincoln, has been a source of controversy, with many residents concerned about the potential impact on the area’s fauna and flora and nearby popular beaches.

Admirers, enthusiasts and media once again crowded Whalers Way car park to catch a glimpse of the first rocket to leave Australia in 50 years.

Proponents, however, argue the range is uniquely placed to launch commercial satellites and will provide scientific and economic benefits to the South Australia and the Port Lincoln region.

A second attempt to launch the 10.2m rocket failed at lift-off due to a technical failure on Wednesday.

With perfect conditions for launch it appeared all systems go when technical problems struck.

Southern Launch said the countdown to blast-off was paused when one of their systems “did not come online” bringing the attempt to an immediate halt.

An attempt last Friday, September 10 was thwarted by strong winds.

The launch window for a successful launch closes on Thursday, September 23.