Sneak peek of our recent Archimedes engine fit check to Neutron's Stage 1 thrust structure.

We have officially acquired Motiv Space Systems. Motiv – now Rocket Lab Robotics – brings mission-tested Mars heritage with advanced multi-degree of freedom robotic arms, actuators, and drive electronics that have enabled some of the most ambitious planetary exploration missions in history, including NASA's Mars Perseverance rover. We're now one of few companies in the world capable of delivering end-to-end Mars mission solutions including launch, spacecraft, software, and proven robotics for surface and on-orbit operations. This unique capability positions us to lead programs like Mars Sample Return mission and the Mars Telecommunications Network.

Successful stage separation test campaign ✅ We're validating stage separation for Neutron, one of the most novel rocket separation systems ever designed. From sep system design, component testing and qualification, GSE design, manufacturing, commissioning, and operations planning through to test execution - we're proving out the technology behind one of Neutron's most critical events for mission success. Up next: moving into intentional off-nominal separation events with non-flight test articles to further push the system's resilience.

Traditional rocket fairings fall away as part of the launch process, making them either expendable or requiring recovery assets to capture and reuse them. Neutron rethinks this equation with the Hungry Hippo fairing. It stays attached to Neutron’s first stage, opening to release stage two and the payload during launch, before closing up and landing as complete unit with stage one, ready to launch again. It's all part of driving down launch cost and increasing launch cadence to give constellations better access to orbit.

I’ve always wondered how he—and the company—felt about me being out here at Wallops documenting everything with a camera. It’s good to know the feedback has been positive.