First Australian-made rocket crashes shortly after lift off

The first orbital rocket made and designed in Australia crashed 14 seconds after lift-off during its first test launch.

Videos show the Eris rocket, launched by Gilmour Space Technologies, lifting off the ground before losing momentum and crashing.

Plumes of white smoke then start to rise at Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland.

Gilmour Space Technologies described the test of the orbital rocket as a “giant leap” for the country’s space capability.

In a written statement, the company confirmed no-one was injured and that a second launch should take place within six to eight months.