Rocket Lab is preparing to launch its 99th mission to date on November 2, deploying a private Japanese Earth-observing satellite into orbit. The Electron rocket is scheduled to lift off from the company's New Zealand site during a window opening at 11:30 a.m. EST (1630 GMT; 5:30 a.m. local time on November 3). Live coverage of the event will be available via Rocket Lab starting approximately 30 minutes before liftoff, with Space.com expected to carry the feed.
Designated "The Sea God Surveys," this mission carries a radar satellite for the Japanese company iQPS. It represents Rocket Lab's tenth launch for the client, which is currently assembling a constellation of 36 synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites in low Earth orbit. Unlike optical sensors, SAR technology offers distinct advantages by allowing observation through cloud cover and enabling data collection both day and night.
This flight marks the 90th mission for the two-stage Electron vehicle, which stands 59 feet (18 meters) tall and provides dedicated rides for small satellites. The workhorse rocket has already completed 16 flights this year. Rocket Lab's other nine launches to date have been conducted by HASTE, a suborbital version of Electron designed for testing technology in hypersonic flight environments. Debuting in June 2023, HASTE generally carries classified payloads.
Sources: Space.com.