The VICTUS HAZE mission explained.
Phase 1: Launch on demand 🚀 The @USSpaceForce's @USSF_SSC called, told us to launch, and just 16 hours 42 minutes hours later, Electron successfully left the pad from LC-1.
Phase 2: 🛰️ With Pioneer spacecraft checkouts complete 34 hours ahead of schedule, the chase is on to rendezvous with another satellite on orbit; one that doesn't want to be found.
We have successfully passed System Requirements Review for the Space Development Agency's Tracking Layer Tranche 3 constellation. This milestone advances the program that will see Rocket Lab deliver satellites equipped with advanced missile warning, tracking, and defense capabilities to U.S. and allied national security.
We're LOX'd and Loaded for LOXSAT❄️Our spacecraft carrying @eta_space's payload will launch on Electron later this year to test out cryo fuel storage and management in low Earth orbit - aka gas station technologies in space⛽
By providing both the spacecraft and the launch for this mission, that's streamlined access to space in action for @eta_space and @NASA_Marshall.
The 1,000th Rutherford engine has rolled off the production line🎉The world's first 3D printed, battery-powered rocket engine is now one of the most manufactured rocket engines on Earth.
Congratulations to the production and development teams behind Rutherford. You make the most complex engineering and manufacturing feats look easy.
Successful stage separation test campaign ✅ We're validating stage separation for Neutron, one of the most novel rocket separation systems ever designed.
From sep system design, component testing and qualification, GSE design, manufacturing, commissioning, and operations planning through to test execution - we're proving out the technology behind one of Neutron's most critical events for mission success.
Up next: moving into intentional off-nominal separation events with non-flight test articles to further push the system's resilience.
Rocket Lab and Raytheon have been selected to demonstrate advanced capabilities for the Space Based Interceptor program.
The program is an important step in strengthening national missile defense capabilities and we stand ready to deliver.
We've signed the largest launch contract in Rocket Lab history: 5x Neutron launches and 3x Electron launches across LC-1 and LC-3 from now through to 2029.
With Neutron's manifest filling up fast through to the end of the decade, the demand signal is clear: the market needs medium launch and assured access to space. We're ready to deliver with Neutron.