Electron is an odd case, being developed in New Zealand by an American-based company. It's really a joint American-New Zealand project. Since it's being operated in New Zealand by an American company, it's going to be regulated by both countries.So, why is this question so important? Shouldn't we be discussing the rocket instead of trivia?
My best guess is that in August, Rocket Lab will choose to launch from Cape Canaveral.Not sure which area on the Cape they'll use for LC-2.
Peter Beck had another interview on TMRO space. Link to video:
Yet another set of engines roll off the production line, looks like the team might beat our 100 engine target for this year.
QuoteYet another set of engines roll off the production line, looks like the team might beat our 100 engine target for this year.https://twitter.com/peter_j_beck/status/1029617348234293254
The way they've hung the flag from the roof looks exactly the same as the one at SpaceX. Is this just something you guys just do in factories over there to remind you which country you're in - or should we read more into it?
Quote from: CameronD on 08/16/2018 01:08 amThe way they've hung the flag from the roof looks exactly the same as the one at SpaceX. Is this just something you guys just do in factories over there to remind you which country you're in - or should we read more into it?No accident that the flag is in the frame. Clearly, Rocket Lab is reminding that it is a "U.S." company. The reasons should be obvious to anyone who follows this business.Displayed flags are common among the players.https://hiveminer.com/Tags/icps%2Culahttps://www.nasa.gov/image-feature/atlas-v-arrives-at-spaceflight-operations-centerhttps://www.satellitetoday.com/government-military/2016/06/23/us-navy-lockheed-martin-ready-launch-muos-5-satellite/https://www.flickr.com/photos/132466114@N03/33309742286They're at the factories. They're at the launch sites. They're on the rockets. They're on the flight suits. - Ed Kyle
Hey guys. When I was looking at the limitations of SpaceX launch sites on another thread, the thought occurred to me: Could SpaceX one day fly out from Mahia, NZ? Distance from LA to Cape Canaveral or Brownsville is about 9000km by barge via the panama canal. NZ is about 10,000km from LA. So, roughly the same. Forgive me if this has been asked before. :-)
I'm pretty sure SpaceX transports their vehicles by land, (ok, except for returning landed stages).
Another slightly O.T. post. Electron is using Elertric Pumpfeed Rutherforth engines. The batteries have a considerable weight during launch. I think battery mass limits their launch capability.
I don't know the exact travel times from LA to the cape via Panama. But I wouldn't be surprised if it is actually *quicker* to get to NZ from LA. There's no canal to slow you down.But would a Mahia launch site provide any advantages over Cape Canaveral or Brownsville? Less sea and air traffic to worry about? Less bureaucracy?
Quote from: Michael Bloxham on 09/21/2018 07:15 amI don't know the exact travel times from LA to the cape via Panama. But I wouldn't be surprised if it is actually *quicker* to get to NZ from LA. There's no canal to slow you down.But would a Mahia launch site provide any advantages over Cape Canaveral or Brownsville? Less sea and air traffic to worry about? Less bureaucracy?This is not a SpaceX thread. The Mahia launch site was built and is operated by Rocket Lab for their small launch vehicles. If you think SpaceX needs to look for more launch sites please use one of the threads in the SpaceX section.