Neutron is scheduled for its debut launch from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 3 in Virginia from mid-2025.
Rocket Lab has announced a mutual agreement with NASA to include its new medium-lift reusable rocket, Neutron, in the agencys Venture-Class Acquisition of Dedicated and Rideshare (VADR) contract. This expansion builds on Rocket Labs established relationship with NASA, which already utilises its Electron rocket for VADR missions.
Neutron, capable of deploying payloads up to 13,000 kg to low Earth orbit, broadens Rocket Labs ability to support a range of missions, including CubeSats, Class D missions, constellation deployments, national security objectives and science and exploration payloads. The rocket is a key component of Rocket Labs vision to operate as a comprehensive space company, enabling the building, launching and operating of its own constellations while delivering space-based services.
Rocket Lab has previously demonstrated its reliability under the VADR programme with rapid back-to-back Electron launches, including the PREFIRE missions and TROPICS missions in 2023. Adding Neutron to the programme provides NASA and other customers with a reliable and flexible launch solution for medium-lift requirements.
Rocket Lab founder and CEO, Sir Peter Beck, said: “Neutron brings choice and value to the launch industry and is the ideal rocket to support NASAs goals with VADR to provide new opportunities for science and technology payloads through commercial best practice. Rocket Lab has been a long trusted and reliable launch partner for NASA missions with Electron, and were proud to have been selected to expand on this with Neutron.”
Neutrons inclusion in the VADR contract complements its selection for other government programmes, such as the US Space Forces OSP-4 programme, a $986m IDIQ contract, and its potential role in the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Lane 1 programme, valued at $5.6bn over five years.
Significant progress is underway on Neutrons launch site at Wallops Island, Virginia, with completion expected in the coming months. Testing of the rockets Archimedes engine and full-scale components is advancing at Rocket Labs facilities across the US Neutrons debut launch is scheduled for mid-2025 from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 3 in Virginia.