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Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket is around one-fourth the size of a Falcon 9 and has a max payload capacity of 500 pounds. It’s definitely much smaller than its peers, but as a result, each flight only costs $5 million. Of course, it helps that the two-stage launch vehicle is powered by Rocket Lab’s Rutherford engines, which are cheap to manufacture. Those engines are primarily composed of 3D-printed components, and they use battery-powered electric motors that are more efficient than those that run on gas. That’s why it only costs around $30,000 to send a CubeSat or a similarly small payload to space atop an Electron.
Still Testing blasted off from the company’s own New Zealand base over a month after its initial ten-day window opened in early December. It was postponed a few times due to technical and weather issues, but it clearly all worked out in the end. Rocket Lab is gearing up to launch a third test flight later this year and might also be preparing to fulfill its contracts with NASA and lunar-mining company Moon Express.
Liftoff from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1. Space is open for business. #StillTesting pic.twitter.com/BwXqrxa6Y6
— Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) January 21, 2018
Today marks the beginning of a new era in commercial access to space. Thank you to @planetlabs and @SpireGlobal for joining us on this ride. #Electron #StillTesting #PassedTheTest pic.twitter.com/RUMx31MzN8
— Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) January 21, 2018
Earth, as seen by Electron. #StillTesting pic.twitter.com/gPUpaY0AYK
— Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) January 21, 2018
We’ve confirmed Dove Pioneer is successfully in orbit! More soon.
— Planet (@planetlabs) January 21, 2018
Speechless. Just like that, @rocketlab reaches orbit and sets a new bar for launch by reaching orbit on just their 2nd test. Today is a huge win for #electron #commercialspace, #smallsats, and #NZ. #StillTesting = #PassedTest pic.twitter.com/zm8pWvVI30
— Spire (@SpireGlobal) January 21, 2018
