Before HeRTS, Australian rocket testing was almost entirely confined to Defence facilities or conducted overseas. This limited access created significant barriers for universities, start-ups, and commercial organisations developing propulsion systems. Testing offshore was costly, time-consuming, and often delayed by international schedules.

Clients needed a domestic solution, a purpose-built site capable of handling everything from small-scale research motors to large commercial motors capable of carrying satellites into space.

• Constructed horizontal rocket test stands rated up to 200 kN
• Commissioned a 1 MN vertical test stand, for acceptance testing of full-scale rocket motors in flight ready vehicles.
• Integrated advanced safety and monitoring systems, including
  • Water deluge suppression to manage heat and noise.
  • Sound and vibration monitoring for compliance and community safety.
  • Soil and water quality monitoring to protect the local environment.
  • Multiple failsafe systems provide the highest levels of safety
• Captured high-fidelity data – thrust, pressure, temperature and strain — to support certification and product development.
• Enabled collaborations with leading organisations including Gilmour Space Technologies, AT Space, Valiant Space and UniSQ

The Helidon Rocket Test Site has transformed Australia’s ability to test, validate, and scale rocket propulsion systems:

• Sovereign capability – the nation’s first commercial facility, giving clients unprecedented local access to rocket testing.
• Accelerated timelines – rapid, repeatable test cycles without the delays of overseas scheduling.
• Validated data – high-quality performance results for certification, research, and product development.
• Safe and compliant operations – underpinned by defence-grade safety and environmental protections.

For clients across aerospace, defence, and research, HeRTS delivers the infrastructure and expertise needed to move from concept to launch with confidence.