The launch of the first Australian-made rocket from North Queensland was meant to make history today, but has faced delays due to an unexpected issue.

Gold Coast-based company Gilmour Space Technologies has spent years preparing to launch its Eris TestFlight1 rocket from the Orbital Spaceport in Bowen.

It is the first Australian-made rocket to attempt orbit and Australia’s first orbital launch in more than 50 years.

Only 12 countries have the ability to launch their own rockets into orbit. 

The maiden flight was scheduled for this morning, but could not go ahead due to an issue in the ground support system.

“No launch today. Our team identified an issue in the ground support system during overnight checks, and we are now in an extended hold while we work through it,” Gilmour Space said in an update.

Eris is now set to launch tomorrow morning. 

The Australian Space Agency has given the company a two-week launch window from today.

Gilmour Space chief and co-founder Adam Gilmour had previously warned that delays and issues are common for rocket launches, especially for first launches.

“These can last anywhere from hours to days, or even weeks, and are often caused by weather conditions, technical issues, or other factors,” he said.

“Safety is always the top priority. We’ll only launch when we’re ready, and when conditions are appropriate.”

The Bowen Orbital Spaceport is near Abbot Point.

A marine and aerial exclusion zone is in place in and around the area for the launch.