Space company Rocket Lab has confirmed it will publicly list through a merger deal with a special purpose acquisition company in the US.
The combined company will list on the Nasdaq. Photo: AFP PHOTO /ROCKET LAB/KIERNAN FANNING AND SIMON MOFFATT
The deal with Vector Acquisition, values the company at $US4.1 billion ($NZ5.6b) and is expected to be completed by the end of June.
The combined company will list on the Nasdaq under the ticker RKLB and current Rocket Lab shareholders would hold 82 percent of the company's equity.
Chief executive and founder Peter Beck said Rocket Lab had been one of only two private companies to deliver regular and reliable access to orbit.
"This milestone accelerates Rocket Lab's ability to unlock the full potential of space through our launch and spacecraft platforms and catalyses our ambition to create a new multi-billion-dollar business vertical in space applications."
The company intended to use the capital from the deal to fund development of its new rocket, Neutron, with an 8 ton payload lift capacity tailored for mega constellations, deep space missions and human spaceflight.
"Rocket Lab is a once-in-a-generation company that is democratising access to space through its constant innovation, leading technology and proven execution," said Alex Slusky, chief executive of Vector.
"Vector Capital has a nearly 25-year track record of identifying and building high-growth technology businesses and we are thrilled to partner with Peter and Rocket Lab's talented team to support the Company's next generation platforms and capabilities."
Rocket Lab's deal with Vector would include additional funds of $US470m from 39 investors including Vector Capital, BlackRock and Neuberger Berman.