Rocket Lab successfully deployed seven satellites into space following its latest mission on Tuesday. Part of the Electron rocket parachuted into the Pacific Ocean and was recovered by a boat. It will be returned to Rocket Lab.
Rocket Lab has now completed almost 40 launches with an Electron rocket, which is a reusable small rocket.
Later this year, Rocket Lab will re-fly a recovered Rutherford engine for the first time.
The Electron rocket can launch 300 kilograms to low earth orbit. The cost per launch is $7.5 million.
The SpaceX Falcon 9 can a launch 17 tons to low earth orbit when the first stage booster is recovered.
Electron uses two stages with the same diameter (1.2 m (3 ft 11 in)) filled with RP-1/LOX propellant. The main body of the rocket is constructed using a lightweight carbon composite material. Both stages use the Rutherford rocket engine, the first electric-pump-fed engine to power an orbital rocket.
Rocket Labs Falcon 9 Class Neutron Rocket Planned for 2024
The planned Neutron rocket will take 13 tons to LEO and is targeting 2024 for operations.
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.