🚀 Electron | 🛰 BlackSky Gen-3 satellite
Launch date: June 2, 2025 23:57 UTC
Payload: BlackSky Gen-3 satellite
Location: Rocket Lab's New Zealand site
Vehicle: Electron
Rocket Lab successfully launched the ‘Full Stream Ahead’ mission on June 2, 2025, at 23:57 UTC (7:57 p.m. ET), carrying BlackSky’s second Gen-3 Earth-observing satellite aboard an Electron rocket from its New Zealand site. Despite minor delays due to weather and additional system checks, the mission deployed the satellite into a 470 km mid-inclination low Earth orbit. This is the second of four planned Gen-3 launches for BlackSky this year, the 65th Electron flight, and Rocket Lab’s 10th launch for BlackSky. Equipped with advanced sensors capable of 50 cm resolution and AI-driven analytics, the Gen-3 satellite enhances BlackSky’s rapid revisit and daily intelligence services for government and commercial customers, marking further growth for the constellation.
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LC-1A, Mahia Peninsula, New Zealand
Launch Complex 1A (LC-1A) is part of Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 (LC-1), situated on the Mahia Peninsula in New Zealand. Opened in 2017, it is notable for being the world’s first privately owned and operated orbital launch site. The site was constructed to support the Electron launch vehicle, which is designed for frequent, low-cost launches of small satellites into low Earth orbit.
LC-1A has facilitated numerous successful launches for commercial, civil, and government customers, cementing Rocket Lab’s position as a major player in the small satellite launch market. The location was chosen for its remote setting, access to a range of orbital inclinations, and minimal air and sea traffic, enabling a high launch cadence and flexibility for customers.