It was Rocket Lab’s 16th launch using an 18-metre Electron rocket, and the first attempt to bring the rocket’s first stage back from space. READ MORE:* Rocket Lab's Peter Beck: Space jobs doesn't mean leaving NZ* Awarua Station team join 'big step' for NZ's space industry* Venus favours the bold: Peter Beck's long shot at finding lifeSUPPLIED Rocket Lab's Return to Sender rocket sits on the pad at Māhia. SpaceX and Tesla founder Elon Musk was among the people to congratulate the company, and has previously commented on Rocket Labs’ updates, said Rocket Lab spokeswoman Morgan Bailey. Rocket Lab’s rideshare mechanism meant lots of satellites hitched a ride together, with the price dependent on the size and the complexity of the mission. SUPPLIED Rocket Lab's Return to Sender mission payload.

Source: Stuff November 20, 2020 02:26 UTC