Rocket Lab is an aerospace company that provides launch services, spacecraft, and space systems for commercial and government customers. The company’s primary launch vehicle is Electron, a small-lift orbital rocket designed to deploy small satellites and rideshare payloads to low Earth orbit. Rocket Lab also develops and manufactures the Rutherford engine, noted for its electric-pump-fed design and additive-manufactured components, which powers Electron and supports the company’s propulsion capabilities. Beyond launch, Rocket Lab offers mission management and dedicated launch integration services to support rapid and responsive access to space.
In addition to rockets and engines, Rocket Lab produces the Photon spacecraft platform, a configurable satellite bus and kick stage used to deliver payloads to precise orbits and to support standalone satellite missions. The company has expanded into satellite manufacturing and space systems, delivering end-to-end solutions that combine vehicle integration, spacecraft bus development, and mission operations. Rocket Lab’s product and service set is aimed at serving constellation operators, scientific missions, and government and defense customers seeking tailored launch and mission solutions.
Founded in New Zealand in 2006 by Peter Beck, who remains the company’s chief executive, Rocket Lab has grown into a multinational operator with manufacturing and operations in the United States as well as launch facilities in New Zealand. The company maintains a presence in Long Beach, California, for U.S. operations and manufacturing and operates launch complexes that enable both hemispheric access and responsive launch cadence for a global customer base. Rocket Lab completed a public listing in 2021 and continues to pursue growth in commercial and national security markets.
Looking forward, Rocket Lab is developing larger and reusable launch systems to address medium-lift market needs and increase launch cadence, while continuing to build its satellite and spacecraft services business. The company positions itself as an integrated provider of launch and space infrastructure, emphasizing rapid deployment, vertical integration in manufacturing, and mission-tailored solutions for a diverse set of international customers.