Ahuriri Point and Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1

Ahuriri Point is the southernmost point of the Māhia Peninsula, in the northern Hawke's Bay Region of New Zealand's eastern North Island.[1] Portland Island lies 1200 metres to the south of Ahuriri Point.

Rocket range

The Rocket Lab company has set up their Launch Complex 1 close to Ahuriri Point to launch their Electron rocket. Test launches of the Electron started in 2017. During regular operations, it is used as a commercial launcher of small satellites in the range of 300-500 pounds, and miniature satellites called CubeSats.[2] New Zealand's first orbital space launch took place from Launch Complex 1 on 21 January 2018.

References

  1. ↑ "Place name detail: Ahuriri Point". New Zealand Gazetteer. New Zealand Geographic Board. Retrieved 17 March 2009.
  2. ↑ Rocket Lab Plans Electron Test Launches This Year. Jeff Foust, Space News. 19 April 2016.

39°15′53″S 177°51′52″E / 39.2648°S 177.8644°E / -39.2648; 177.8644


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