Rocket Lab

The Space Force has selected five companies to demonstrate connectivity for the Space Data Network, a multi-vendor satellite network. The companies will prototype and test connections to the network backbone. The awards total $60 million and aim to enhance space data connectivity.

Kepler Communications plans to launch optical relay satellites on Rocket Lab's Neutron rocket in 2028. The launch is part of Kepler's plans for next-generation satellite deployments. Rocket Lab's Neutron rocket is scheduled to carry out the mission.

Rocket Factory Augsburg's first orbital launch attempt is delayed due to a tank problem, while Rocket Lab's Neutron rocket may not launch until 2027. Both companies are working to resolve issues and meet their launch goals.

Rocket Lab has successfully launched a Japanese radar-imaging satellite, the 8th iQPS satellite, after a previous launch attempt was aborted. The launch occurred on August 6. This satellite is equipped with radar-imaging technology.

Rocket Lab's suborbital launches at Pacific Spaceport Complex-Alaska could potentially lead to national-security launches, easing the Pentagon's launch bottleneck. The spaceport is being considered as a possible solution to the Pentagon's launch capacity issues. This development could have significant implications for the US military's space operations.

Rocket Lab has been awarded a $397 million contract by the US Space Force to build and launch 'flatellites' for real-time airborne threat tracking. The contract is part of the Space Force's AMTI satellite program, which aims to enhance the military's ability to track airborne targets. Other companies, including STR, have also been awarded contracts for the program.

The Space Force has awarded $615M in contracts for a second batch of aircraft-tracking satellites, building on a previous $4.16B award to SpaceX. The new contracts are part of the SB-AMTI program.

Rocket Lab has been awarded a $266 million contract by the US Space Force for up to 18 suborbital launches to support missile defense development. The launches will take place from a new facility in Alaska, with the majority of the missions occurring over the next three years. This contract marks the largest single launch agreement secured by Rocket Lab to date.

The Pentagon's Space Systems Command awarded Rocket Lab USA a $266 million contract for suborbital launch services. The contract covers 12 confirmed launches with an option for six more, to be conducted from the Pacific Spaceport Complex on Kodiak Island, Alaska, through 2028.

Iridium Communications has completed its takeover of Aireon, an aircraft-tracking venture, ahead of its planned sale to Rocket Lab. The move brings Aireon fully in-house for Iridium. The takeover is part of an $8 billion deal between Iridium and Rocket Lab.