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Rocket Lab Delivers Mission Success on First Launch of 2026 for New Customer: Open Cosmos
Globenewswire· 2026-01-22 12:33
Core Insights - Rocket Lab Corporation successfully completed its first launch of 2026 and its 80th overall Electron launch, demonstrating its ongoing capabilities in the launch services sector [1][2] Launch Details - The mission titled 'The Cosmos Will See You Now' lifted off from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 in Mahia, New Zealand, deploying two satellites into a 1,050 km circular Earth orbit for Open Cosmos, marking a successful collaboration with a new customer [2][4] - This launch highlighted the Electron rocket's versatility and reliability, reinforcing its position as a dependable small spacecraft launch vehicle [2][4] Customer and Market Context - Open Cosmos, a pan-European space technology company, is expanding its satellite services, having recently secured high-priority Ka-band spectrum and launched its first satellites for a new low Earth orbit telecom constellation [3] - The new constellation complements existing satellites that provide high-resolution imagery and global monitoring, indicating a growing demand for satellite services [3] Company Overview - Founded in 2006, Rocket Lab has established itself as a leader in end-to-end space solutions, including reliable launch services, satellite manufacturing, and on-orbit management [5] - The Electron launch vehicle has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, successfully delivering over 200 satellites for various applications, including national security and scientific research [5] - Rocket Lab is also developing the larger Neutron launch vehicle for constellation deployment, indicating future growth potential in the launch services market [5]