Rocket Lab is preparing for a momentous occasion as its workhorse Electron rocket prepares for its 50th launch. This mission, aptly named ‘No Time Toulouse,’ marks a significant milestone for the company, demonstrating the reliability and frequency of its operations. The 18-meter-tall, two-stage rocket first took flight in May 2017 and has since become a mainstay in the small satellite launch market, particularly for commercial customers. This specific launch is the first of five dedicated missions to deploy a constellation of 25 satellites for Kinéis, a French company specializing in internet-of-things (IoT) solutions.
The launch window for the No Time Toulouse mission from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 in Mahia, New Zealand, is set for 6:13 a.m. local time on Friday, June 21st (2:13 p.m. ET on Thursday, June 20th). The mission was initially planned for Wednesday but was postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions. Backup launch opportunities are available over the next 10 days, should weather continue to pose a challenge.
Rocket Lab is understandably excited about this milestone, showcasing the company’s commitment to reliable and frequent small satellite launches. Sir Peter Beck, Rocket Lab’s founder and CEO, expressed his pride in the team’s achievement in a statement on the company’s website, highlighting the significance of reaching 50 launches. He also extended gratitude to Rocket Lab’s customers, who have contributed to making Electron one of the most frequently launched rockets in history.
Kinéis, the recipient of the 50th launch, is backed by a consortium of investors including the French government’s space agency CNES (Centre National d’Études Spatiales) and CLS (Collecte Localisation Satellites), an international space-based solutions provider. This partnership further underscores Rocket Lab’s growing presence in the satellite deployment sector, competing with established players like SpaceX and its Falcon 9 rocket.
Rocket Lab is actively expanding its operations, having commenced launches from U.S. soil in January 2023. The company is also developing a more powerful next-generation rocket, aptly named Neutron, capable of carrying humans into space. For those interested in witnessing this historic launch, Rocket Lab will be providing live coverage starting at 5:15 a.m. local time on Friday, June 21st (1:15 p.m. ET on Thursday, June 20th), about an hour before the anticipated liftoff. Be sure to check Rocket Lab’s social media platforms for updates and confirmation of the launch time, as the weather in the region remains a bit unsettled.
