Successful Deployment of QPS-SAR-9
Rocket Lab has completed its 61st Electron mission, delivering the QPS-SAR-9 satellite for the Institute for Q-shu Pioneers of Space, Inc. (iQPS). The mission, named “The Lightning God Reigns,” lifted off from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 in Mahia, New Zealand, on March 15, 2025, deploying the spacecraft into a 575 km circular orbit. This marks the second launch Rocket Lab has executed for iQPS, following the deployment of a previous QPS-SAR satellite in December 2023.
The launch is part of a broader agreement between Rocket Lab and iQPS, involving eight additional Electron missions planned for 2025 and 2026. Five more launches are scheduled to occur within the remainder of 2025, with two more planned for the following year. These missions will contribute to the expansion of iQPS’ synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite constellation, which will eventually include up to 36 satellites. The constellation is designed to provide near real-time Earth observation, operating in all weather conditions and during both day and night.
Rocket Lab has positioned Electron as an optimal launch solution for constellation deployments, offering flexibility in scheduling, orbit selection, and mission configuration. The next mission for iQPS is expected to launch no earlier than May 2025.
The Electron Rocket: A Dedicated Small Launch Vehicle
The Electron rocket is Rocket Lab’s flagship launch vehicle, designed for small satellite deployments. It is a two-stage, expendable rocket with an optional third stage known as the Kick Stage, which provides precise orbital placement and payload deployment capabilities. The rocket stands approximately 18 meters tall and 1.2 meters in diameter, making it one of the most compact orbital-class launch vehicles in operation.
Electron is powered by Rocket Lab’s proprietary Rutherford engines, which are unique in the industry for their electric pump-fed design. The first stage features nine Rutherford engines, while the second stage is powered by a single vacuum-optimized Rutherford engine. These engines use a mixture of liquid oxygen (LOX) and RP-1 (a refined form of kerosene) as propellants.
The rocket is constructed primarily from carbon composite materials, allowing for a lightweight yet strong structure. Electron’s payload capacity is approximately 300 kg to low Earth orbit (LEO), making it ideal for launching small satellites, technology demonstration payloads, and components for large constellations.
One of Electron’s distinguishing features is its rapid production and launch cadence. With multiple launchpads, including Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand and Launch Complex 2 in Virginia, Rocket Lab can offer frequent, dedicated launches for customers. The company has also been working on reusability efforts, recovering and refurbishing first-stage boosters to reduce costs and increase launch availability.
Rocket Lab: A Growing Force in the Space Industry
Rocket Lab, founded in 2006, has become a major player in the commercial space sector. The company provides end-to-end space solutions, including launch services, satellite manufacturing, and spacecraft components. Headquartered in Long Beach, California, Rocket Lab operates globally, supporting a wide range of customers in national security, scientific research, Earth observation, and communications.
Since its first successful orbital launch in 2018, Electron has become one of the most frequently launched U.S. rockets. The company has delivered more than 200 satellites to orbit, solidifying its position as a reliable provider for both commercial and government clients. In addition to Electron, Rocket Lab is developing the larger Neutron rocket, designed for medium-class payloads and reusable flight.
Beyond launch services, Rocket Lab has developed the Photon spacecraft platform, which supports missions to the Moon, Mars, and even private ventures to Venus. The company’s growing portfolio reflects its expansion into broader space system capabilities, positioning it as a versatile provider for the evolving space economy.
Summary
Rocket Lab’s latest launch for iQPS marks another successful mission in its expanding portfolio of constellation deployments. With additional missions scheduled throughout 2025 and 2026, the company continues to demonstrate Electron’s reliability as a dedicated small satellite launcher. Rocket Lab’s continued innovation in reusable launch technology and space systems development reinforces its role as a key player in the modern space industry.
