The government has decided to raise the limit on launches to 1000, up from the previous cap of 100 set in 2017, as the current limit is nearing its threshold.
Rocket Lab, a US-NZ company, holds a dominant position in the launch market with its facility at Mahia.
Space Minister Judith Collins noted that the 100-launch cap is likely to be reached this year.
The decision to raise the limit aims to support the growth of the space and advanced aviation industries within sustainable environmental boundaries.
A recent assessment determined that the environmental impact of increased space debris from launches is minimal.
Prior to this change, each launch beyond the 100-cap would have required special marine consent.
The government is working to streamline aerospace regulations to achieve its goal of doubling the industry’s value to $5 billion by 2030.
Professor Richard Easther from Auckland University believes that the new 1000-launch cap will benefit the tech industry, even though it may take several decades to reach that number.
However, Easther highlighted that New Zealand has yet to address environmental concerns related to launches, satellite deployment, and their impact on the night sky and upper atmosphere.
He emphasized the importance of leading discussions on these issues as a country involved in regulating orbital launches.
Despite the increase in launch limits, concerns persist about the transparency and oversight of the New Zealand Space Agency, particularly following the loss of a methane-measuring satellite funded by taxpayers.
Easther stressed the need for transparency and accountability in decision-making processes regarding space activities to build public trust in the agency’s operations.
