New Zealand MBIE Reports on Rocket Lab's Automation and MethaneSAT Mission Challenges
A briefing from New Zealand's Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) outlines challenges faced by Rocket Lab, including increased demands for console time and the testing of an automated system to reduce manual intervention. While MethaneSAT reported no issues, concerns over transparency have been raised by Professor Richard Easther, prompting potential scrutiny from the Auditor-General. MBIE emphasized the need for improved communication and governance in future space initiatives.

A briefing document from New Zealand's Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) to Space Minister Judith Collins details challenges faced by Rocket Lab, though specific issues remain redacted. The document indicates increased demands for console time and mentions Rocket Lab's testing of an automated system to lessen manual intervention.
A subsequent briefing confirmed successful automation for data recorder resets and noted ongoing work on a software patch from Blue Canyon Technologies to prevent future resets, with results expected soon. Despite MethaneSAT's claims of no issues with the satellite, University of Auckland's Professor Richard Easther raised concerns over transparency, suggesting a potential investigation by the Auditor-General. MBIE acknowledged the need for better communication and governance in future space investments, as highlighted in its report on the MethaneSAT mission.




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