Rocket Lab successfully reaches space on its first test

Posted on 25 May 2017 by Michael Cruickshank
Rocket Lab's Electron rocket launched today from the North Island of New Zealand. Image courtesy of Rocket Lab.

New Zealand based spaceflight startup Rocket Lab today successfully reached space in the first ever test launch of its Electron rocket.

The rocket, which was completely developed in-house, is a small two-stage vehicle able to carry between 150-225kg of payload into orbit. Measuring in at 17m high, the rocket makes use of advanced materials such as carbon fiber in its structure, and contains the in-house Rutherford engine, made almost entirely from 3D printed components. The launch,…

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