Rocket Lab buys software firm ASI

US-based Rocket Lab has continued to expand beyond its core business of launch vehicles by acquiring Advanced Solutions Inc (ASI), which develops flight software for spacecraft, Rocket Lab announced on 12 October.

ASI will become part of Rocket Lab's Space Systems business, which includes the new Photon small satellite and a satellite parts manufacturer that Rocket Lab acquired last year. While Rocket Lab's flagship product is the Electron small satellite launch vehicle, which first flew in 2017, it envisions itself as an “end-to-end space company” and not just a launch provider.

Rocket Lab agreed to pay USD40 million for ASI, plus an additional USD5.5 million if 2021 performance goals are met. ASI founder and CEO John Cuseo will continue to lead his workforce of approximately 60 employees.

Founded in 1995, ASI is located in Littleton, Colorado, and its customers include the US Department of Defense, NASA, and aerospace prime contractors. ASI's MAX flight software has operated on more than 45 spacecraft.