| Summary/Abstract |
In the September-October 2020 issue of this journal (vol 45, no 5), we saw how many countries and private corporations are getting involved in a new space race. Reusable rockets have revolutionised access to space, slashing costs of delivery to and from the stratosphere. Following American private corporations, the Russian space agency Roscosmos has recently announced that in its Amur programme it will soon use reusable rockets.1 New Zealand is no exception. Rocket Lab is reusing part of its Electron launch vehicles. We all know that New Zealand, with a population of just 5 million, has a tradition of punching above its weight. This country is a primary industries powerhouse, probably hosts the best known and most successful rugby team on the planet and is seen internationally as a champion in the fight against Covid-19. New Zealand is also rather successful in the commercial space sector - quite ironic considering that locals refer to themselves as kiwis, the name of a local flightless bird.
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