TonyP Loc: New Zealand

http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2018/01/praise-to-the-heavens-for-rocket-lab-after-successful-launch.html

https://www.rocketlabusa.com/about-us/

"Ten years ago, Rocket Lab received its first research and development grant - they are a great example of what can be achieved."

George Sowers, former chief scientist and vice-president of United Launch Alliance - a joint venture of Lockheed Martin and Boeing - welcomed New Zealand to what he said was a short list of countries with a successful launch system.

"Very nice launch. My heartiest congratulations to the Rocket Lab team."

Michael1079 Loc: Indiana

Very interesting - thanks so much for sharing!

Georgews Loc: Wellington, New Zealand

Yeah, great effort by Rocket lab. Not a piece of No 8 wire anywhere either. I watched the launch on TV. Wonder how much that dipstick on the boat cost them the day before?
Well done team!

Texcaster Loc: Queensland

Well done indeed! Like most of good things out of Enzed, Australia will end up claiming it as our own. lol

TonyP Loc: New Zealand

Thanks Michael and George.
Interesting you mention the cost of the cancelled launch George, no mention in the News here about recriminations or cost.

TonyP Loc: New Zealand

Funny you should say that. Many of the US based News sites have claimed it as a US Company and given the USA the credit.
The only US input has been money.
Peter Beck, founder, CEO and CTO is a born and bred NZer. He was originally funded with a grant from the NZ Government but now
has some very major US companies as investors which has also allowed him to develope launch sites in the US.

If you are in the mood to claim something, if you leave Rocketlab alone I can give you a young, pregnant Prime Minister if you are interested.
Not a first but close as the second female pregnant PM of a country.
Deal?