Image / SuppliedKiwi-founded Rocket Lab will develop and run a mission control centre for a methane-tracking satellite, before handing over the reins to an Auckland University-based space institute. MethaneSAT marks New Zealand's first state-funded journey into orbit, with the Government having already earmarked $26m toward the not-for-profit global space programme. The project, which the fledgling New Zealand Space Agency has partnered with the EDF in, will also freely publish data so progress by companies and countries can be compared. Rocket Lab will develop, manage and operate MethaneSAT's Auckland-based Mission Operations and Control Centre, set to be up and running by mid next year ahead of launch in late 2022. Peter Beck's Rocket Lab will play a fostering role in the Auckland-based operation.

Source: New Zealand Herald April 22, 2021 21:00 UTC