Session
Session 4: Launch
Abstract
To provide unrivalled access to space, two important things are needed: a drastic reduction in cost for dedicated launches and increased launch frequency. Currently, the high cost associated with small satellites reaching desired orbits presents a major barrier in the commercialization and exploration of space. This is combined with long lead times to get a satellite on orbit, and with new markets opening, and the potential for drastic growth, it is impossible to be responsive to new opportunities in these timeframes. Rocket Lab has a solution. The Electron launch vehicle is a dedicated small launcher designed to liberate the small satellite market with dedicated, high-frequency launch opportunities. Vertical integration combined with streamlined modular payloads will reduce the lead time to put a satellite on orbit from years to weeks. Electron is a two-stage vehicle capable of delivering payloads of 150 kg to a 500 km sun-synchronous orbit, the target range for the high-growth small satellite market. With a private launch range in Mahia, New Zealand, Rocket Lab can accommodate an increased launch cadence as well as reaching orbital inclinations from sun-synchronous through to 39 degrees from a single site. Rocket Lab’s Electron vehicle is well positioned to disrupt the space industry, opening space up to the burgeoning small satellite market.
Presentation
Rocket Lab: Liberating the Small Satellite Market
To provide unrivalled access to space, two important things are needed: a drastic reduction in cost for dedicated launches and increased launch frequency. Currently, the high cost associated with small satellites reaching desired orbits presents a major barrier in the commercialization and exploration of space. This is combined with long lead times to get a satellite on orbit, and with new markets opening, and the potential for drastic growth, it is impossible to be responsive to new opportunities in these timeframes. Rocket Lab has a solution. The Electron launch vehicle is a dedicated small launcher designed to liberate the small satellite market with dedicated, high-frequency launch opportunities. Vertical integration combined with streamlined modular payloads will reduce the lead time to put a satellite on orbit from years to weeks. Electron is a two-stage vehicle capable of delivering payloads of 150 kg to a 500 km sun-synchronous orbit, the target range for the high-growth small satellite market. With a private launch range in Mahia, New Zealand, Rocket Lab can accommodate an increased launch cadence as well as reaching orbital inclinations from sun-synchronous through to 39 degrees from a single site. Rocket Lab’s Electron vehicle is well positioned to disrupt the space industry, opening space up to the burgeoning small satellite market.
