The New Zealand/US-based small rocket launch operator Rocket Lab has landed a five-Electron KS launches deal to launch 25 satellites for the Kineis “Internet of Things” (IoT) communicaitons constellation. The dedicated launches will begin in Q2 2023. The deal, whose terms have not been disclosed, nevertheless represents a bit of a coup for the Rocket Lab firm which is trying to compete with SpaceX’s much cheaper if less bespoke ride share launch service with its dedicated launch business. The satellites will be delivered by the launch vehicle to a 650 km low Earth orbit.
View of Mahia Peninsula in New Zealand launch site where seventh Electron was launched from. Courtesy: Rocket Lab
