California space tourism rocket builder XCOR in deal for launches from South Korea

Calif. space tourism firm in S. Korea launch deal

LOS ANGELES — A California company developing a rocket plane for space tourism has announced a deal under which it would conduct launches for a nonprofit organization in South Korea.

Mojave-based Xcor Aerospace says in a statement Thursday that it has been selected to supply launch services to the Yecheon Astro Space Center.

Spokesman Mike Massee says Xcor has received an initial payment, but he cannot disclose the sum or the ultimate value of the project.

Xcor says it has taken on export-control consultants to help it comply with U.S. laws and regulations.

The company is developing a two-seat rocket plane for suborbital flights into space.