Rocket Lab, a leader in the space launch industry, has been awarded a multi-launch contract by iQPS, a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite operator from Japan. The deal sees Rocket Lab tasked with deploying multiple SAR satellites for iQPS across five Electron missions. The launches will take place from Rocket Lab’s private orbital launch sites, Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand and Launch Complex 2 in Virginia, USA.
Rocket Lab’s Electron launch vehicle has been specifically designed to cater to the needs of small satellite operators, offering dedicated launches and the ability to select the desired orbit. This makes it an ideal choice for iQPS, who will use the satellites to expand its SAR constellation. The SAR technology used by iQPS is capable of capturing all-weather, day-and-night imagery of the Earth’s surface, which can be used for a range of applications including disaster response and monitoring infrastructure and agriculture.
The first launch under the new contract is scheduled to take place in November 2022. The mission will see the deployment of the third SAR satellite, iQPS-3. The remaining four satellites are expected to be deployed by the end of 2023. This rapid deployment schedule is made possible by Rocket Lab’s ability to launch on a monthly, weekly, or even daily basis.
Rocket Lab has previously worked with iQPS, launching its first SAR satellite, iQPS-1, in December 2019. The successful mission saw the satellite deployed into a precise orbit, demonstrating the capabilities of Rocket Lab’s Electron launch vehicle and the flexibility it offers to small satellite operators.
The new multi-launch contract marks a significant step towards Rocket Lab’s goal of providing frequent, reliable, and cost-effective access to space for small satellites. With the Electron launch vehicle, Rocket Lab is able to provide a dedicated ride to space, eliminating the need for small satellite operators to ride-share and wait for a primary payload.
Rocket Lab’s proven track record and the flexibility offered by the Electron launch vehicle make it a preferred choice for small satellite operators. This new contract with iQPS is expected to further cement Rocket Lab’s position as a leading player in the small satellite launch market.
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