Spotlight: Author Clancy Invests in Rotary Rocket Project

Redwood Shores-based Rotary Rocket Co. said it has raised $6 million to support development of a reusable space launch vehicle, including an undisclosed amount from Tom Clancy. Closely held Rotary said the author of “The Hunt for Red October” is also joining its board. Known as the Roton, the vehicle is designed to take off like a traditional rocket, then use rotors, similar to a helicopter, to land after deploying its payload so the vehicle can be reused. Test launches are set for 1999.