New Zealand test rocket makes it to space but not to orbit
WELLINGTON, New Zealand — California-based company Rocket Lab said Thursday it had launched a test rocket into space from its New Zealand launch pad, although the rocket didn’t reach orbit as hoped.
The company said its Electron rocket lifted off at 4:20 p.m. Thursday and reached space three minutes later.
“It was a fantastic flight and we are really, really happy with the performance of the vehicle,” said company founder Peter Beck.
Beck, a New Zealander, said the early stages of the mission went to plan, right up to the final separation.