New Zealand blasts into space with 3D-printed rocket
- 7 years ago
MAHIA PENINSULA, NEW ZEALAND — Test launches for a commercial space rocket built by a startup based in Los Angeles and New Zealand are scheduled to take place this week.
The Rocket Lab Electron is made of carbon composite material, and its rocket boosters use 3D-printed Rutherford engines, according to the Rocket Lab website.
The rocket’s first stage has a cluster of nine electric engines that burn liquid oxygen and refined kerosene. The second stage has a single vacuum-optimized engine that can carry payloads weighing up to 225 kilograms.
The Electron rocket will deliver small satellites into space. They will be used for mapping, to predict the weather, provide high-speed internet, and analyse the environment.
Rocket Lab plans to complete three test launches before the Electron is available commercially. The company plans to eventually build and launch one rocket per week, with flights costing around US$5 million.
The Rocket Lab Electron is made of carbon composite material, and its rocket boosters use 3D-printed Rutherford engines, according to the Rocket Lab website.
The rocket’s first stage has a cluster of nine electric engines that burn liquid oxygen and refined kerosene. The second stage has a single vacuum-optimized engine that can carry payloads weighing up to 225 kilograms.
The Electron rocket will deliver small satellites into space. They will be used for mapping, to predict the weather, provide high-speed internet, and analyse the environment.
Rocket Lab plans to complete three test launches before the Electron is available commercially. The company plans to eventually build and launch one rocket per week, with flights costing around US$5 million.