Next space revolution poised for liftoff from paddock next year

The next revolution in space, making humdrum what was long the special preserve of tax-funded giants like NASA, will be launching next year from a paddock in New Zealand's South Island.

The rocket launch range is not just New Zealand's first of any kind, but also the world's first private launch range.

The rocket, designed by Rocket Lab, one of a growing number of businesses aiming to slash the cost of getting into space, will be powered by a 3D-printed rocket engine - another first.