Rocket Lab achieved two significant milestones in space exploration. On March 15, 2025, the Electron rocket successfully launched from Launch Complex 1 in Mahia, New Zealand, deploying iQPS' QPS-SAR-9 satellite into a 575 km circular orbit. This mission, named "The Lightning God Reigns," is part of a larger contract to deploy eight satellites for iQPS, supporting their 36-satellite SAR constellation designed for high-resolution Earth observation.
Following this, Rocket Lab launched its third mission for Varda, designated W-3. This mission utilizes Rocket Lab's Pioneer spacecraft platform to support Varda's in-space pharmaceutical manufacturing capsule. The Pioneer spacecraft provides power, communication, propulsion, and attitude control for the capsule, enabling microgravity drug development. Upon completion of manufacturing operations, Rocket Lab will manage the capsule's deorbit and reentry, targeting a landing at the Koonibba Test Range in South Australia.
These missions highlight Rocket Lab's role in enabling both satellite constellation deployment and in-space manufacturing, showcasing the company's capabilities in providing flexible launch solutions and advanced spacecraft platforms.