7 May 2026 2018, the American private aerospace company Rocket Lab announced the largest launch contract in the company's history, and also about the acquisition of the company, that deals with space robotics.
For reference: Rocket Lab, founded in 2006 year, specializes in the development of lightweight Electron launch vehicles for launching small satellites (CubeSat) and creation of satellites. The company actively uses 3D printing and is one of the leaders of commercial launches.
As part of the announcement of financial results for the first quarter, Rocket Lab reported, that signed a contract with a confidential customer for five launches of the Neutron medium-tonnage rocket and Electron launches. The missions are planned for 2026–2029. CEO of the company Peter Beck said, that the value of the contract exceeds the company's previous record - a contract for 190 million dollars on 20 launches of the Electron suborbital variant (HASTE).
Beck reported, that Rocket Lab is on schedule to launch its first rocket in the fourth quarter of this year. The company postponed a mission scheduled for early next year, as the first stage tank was damaged during the tests in January, which led to changes in the design. As a result of the reconstruction of the tank, specialists improved it by improving the safety margin and manufacturability. According to the general director, the company plans to gradually increase the pace of Neutron launches: three in 2027 year and five in 2028 year.
Rocket Lab also announced the acquisition of California-based company Motiv Space Systems, which specializes in space robotics and mechanisms. After closing the deal (expected this month) Motiv will be rebranded as Rocket Lab Robotics. Beck noted, that although Motiv is known for developing the robotic arm for the Perseverance rover, the acquisition will also allow Rocket Lab to manufacture components independently, such as solar drive mechanisms and antenna gimbals.
The general director noted, that opportunities, received from the acquisition of Motiv, among other things, will assist in Rocket Lab's proposals for Mars missions. The company is actively lobbying for an orbital communications mission to Mars, for which NASA plans to invite proposals soon, and favors a commercial approach to returning samples from Mars.
Source: https://spacenews.com