Rocket Lab Launches QPS-SAR-12 Satellite for iQPS Earth Observation Constellation

On August 5, 2025, Rocket Lab successfully launched the QPS-SAR-12 satellite, also known as Kushinada-I, for the Japanese Earth-imaging company iQPS. The mission, named 'The Harvest Goddess Thrives,' took place from Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand, marking the 69th Electron mission and the fifth dedicated launch for iQPS.

The QPS-SAR-12 satellite is part of iQPS's initiative to deploy a constellation of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites designed to provide high-resolution Earth-monitoring services. These satellites are capable of capturing images regardless of cloud cover or time of day, which is essential for applications such as disaster response, urban planning, and agricultural monitoring. SAR technology offers a significant advantage over traditional optical imaging, especially in regions prone to frequent cloud cover.

This launch contributes to Rocket Lab's record year, achieving a 100% mission success rate for all Electron launches in 2025. The company continues to solidify its position as a leader in dedicated small satellite launches for commercial, civil, and government missions, while preparing for the anticipated debut of its medium-lift reusable Neutron rocket.