Non-Defence Trials

ASRI Sounding Rocket Trials

The Australian Space Research Institute (ASRI) has conducted numerous sounding rocket trials at Woomera since 1992 including the launch of the ASRI-developed liquid-fuel AUSROC-2, as well as small solid fuel 'Sighter' and 'Zuni' rockets (pictured). The latter rockets, with diameters of 75 mm and 125 mm respectively, reach altitudes of around 5-7 km and are used for experimental and educational purposes under ASRI's Small Sounding Rocket Program. Regular flights are carried out from Launch Area 9 with payloads constructed by ASRI, university groups and school students. In addition, students participating in the Summer Session Program of the International Space University conducted a highly successful set of experiments on Zuni rockets launched by ASRI in August 2004.

ASRI is presently developing an upgraded version of the AUSROC-2 liquid fuel rocket and also a new solid fuel sounding rocket (Wagtail) for use at Woomera. Details concerning ASRI's programs can be found at www.asri.org.au.