WB-2 Satellite Re-entry to the Koonibba Test Range

Southern Launch is seeking feedback on the potential impacts of proposed airspace controls to be activated at night on a single occasion between 11 November and 20 December 2024. The airspace management solution is required to ensure safe separation between aircraft and the WB-2 satellite returning from orbit.

A temporary restricted area is defined to conservatively encompass the hazard area for the returning satellite within Australian territory. Aircraft will not be permitted to transit the temporary restricted airspace during an approximately 40-minute period of enforcement. Final timings and instructions will be promogulated by NOTAM in the days leading up to the re-entry. Airservices Australia will serve as Controlling Authority.

The temporary restricted area will be supplemented by temporary danger area, established to extend the airspace southward over the ocean and encompasses the hazard area for airspace beyond Australian territory, as defined by the 12 nautical mile (n mile) territorial sea boundary. The temporary danger area will be active during the same period as the temporary restricted area and aircraft will be advised to plan around the area during that time. Airservices Australia will be the point of contact.

Please refer to the attachments for the coordinate boundary of the proposed temporary restricted and danger areas, supporting imagery. Note the proximity of the airspace controls to Ceduna Airport (YCDU). The minimum distance between the westernmost border of the temporary restricted area is 12 n mile. For aircraft taking off from Ceduna Airport to the northwest, the straight-line distance between the runway and the airspace boundary (with a fixed bearing) is 13 n mile.

Southern Launch will notify the public of the target return date on its website, alongside providing the most current information on the temporary restricted and danger area boundaries, planned timings, and points of contact. Please contact Eamon Lawson on <eamon.lawson@southernlaunch.space> should you wish to receive direct updates on mission timings or to provide feedback on this proposal.