Local company Hypersonix Launch Systems is developing world-leading sustainable hypersonic flight technology using hydrogen power from its base in Carole Park.
Brisbane Innovation Spotlight
Hypersonix Launch Systems has been featured in a new Brisbane campaign called ‘Alive with Opportunity’. The campaign, run by the Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), aims to show the nation the cutting-edge work being done in the city.
BEDA materials note that Brisbane has many innovation hubs and growing manufacturing exports. The agency uses the city’s innovation boom to attract new investments and businesses.
City leaders are pointing to Brisbane’s economic growth potential leading up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner stated that Brisbane is one of Australia’s fastest-growing capitals and a top destination for investment. He mentioned the city’s strong workforce, good infrastructure, and appealing lifestyle as reasons why it is business-friendly.
BEDA CEO Anthony Ryan added that Brisbane offers unmatched opportunities for businesses wanting to be part of future innovation and make a real-world impact. He suggested the strong community spirit and expertise in Brisbane attract talent.
Vision for Green Aerospace
Hypersonix aims to be the world leader in sustainable hypersonic flight technology. The company’s mission is to apply modern business ideas, known as New Space practices, to develop green hypersonic systems. They hope these systems will significantly change the global aerospace sector while respecting the Earth’s atmosphere.
A key part of their approach involves creating reusable products powered by clean hydrogen fuel. Company values centre on innovation, excellent work, focusing on customer needs, and promoting clean, sustainable practices.
Building on Australian Research
Hypersonix’s work builds on Australia’s long history in scramjet research, a type of engine needed for hypersonic flight (travelling at more than five times the speed of sound). Source materials point to significant milestones in Australian research, including the first successful scramjet flight test under the HyShot programme in 2002.
The University of Queensland’s T4 shock tunnel, commissioned earlier, has been vital for ground testing. Later developments included the first flight test of a hydrogen-fuelled 3D scramjet in 2015 and the ground testing of the SPARTAN scramjet engine in 2019.
Hypersonix produced Australia’s first 3D-printed fixed geometry scramjet in 2021, showing progress in manufacturing techniques. The company is now focused on turning this research background into commercial products.
Future Flight Plans
Looking ahead, Hypersonix Launch Systems has set a goal for the first launch related to its DART project. The company is targeting this launch for the year 2025. This represents a significant step in their plan to bring sustainable hypersonic technology to the market.
Published Date 04-April-2025