Today Rocket Labs is counting down to launch a DARPA called Radio Frequency Risk Reduction Deployment Demonstration (R3D2) that will test technologies for deployable antennas. Once in orbit, R3D2 will deploy a Kapton membrane that will expand to a diameter of 2.25 meters to demonstrate the ability to small satellites to carry large deployable antennas needed to support high-bandwidth communications.

Weather is looking great for Sunday UTC. https://t.co/fK5e72ch70
— Peter Beck (@Peter_J_Beck) March 22, 2019

Following today’s launch readiness review for the DARPA #R3D2 mission, Electron is go for launch! We are currently targeting no earlier than 22:30, Sunday 24 March, UTC. pic.twitter.com/mz3A3caJkz
— Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) March 22, 2019

Welcome to launch day! On board Electron for today’s mission is the R3D2 spacecraft for @DARPA. This innovative mission intends to space-qualify a prototype reflect array antenna to improve radio communications in small spacecraft. Stay tuned for launch updates pic.twitter.com/xtfrOzNUDs
— Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) March 24, 2019

Rocket Lab is launching the @DARPA R3D2 mission today at 7:36pm EDT, 23:36 UTC, from the Mahia Peninsula! Watch live here: https://t.co/f9pMuPLoDr

Expect a gorgeous launch from the prettiest launch complex in the world! Pictured is ElaNa XIX. pic.twitter.com/bG8D6szrtd
— Brady Kenniston (@TheFavoritist) March 24, 2019

SOURCES – Rocket Lab, Twitter, DARPA, Youtube Written By Brian Wang

Brian Wang

Brian Wang is a Futurist Thought Leader and a popular Science blogger with 1 million readers per month. His blog Nextbigfuture.com is ranked #1 Science News Blog. It covers many disruptive technology and trends including Space, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, Anti-aging Biotechnology, and Nanotechnology.

Known for identifying cutting edge technologies, he is currently a Co-Founder of a startup and fundraiser for high potential early-stage companies. He is the Head of Research for Allocations for deep technology investments and an Angel Investor at Space Angels.

A frequent speaker at corporations, he has been a TEDx speaker, a Singularity University speaker and guest at numerous interviews for radio and podcasts. He is open to public speaking and advising engagements.