Rocket Lab's recent launch of the STP-S30 mission for the U.S. Space Force's Space Systems Command (SSC) marks a significant achievement in the company's history. This successful launch, named 'Don't Be Such A Square', showcases Rocket Lab's flexibility and agile launch capabilities, delivering a critical payload five months ahead of schedule. The mission, executed in collaboration with the USSF's Rocket Systems Launch Program (RSLP), serves national security and defense technology advancement objectives for the Department of War (DoW).
The launch, which took place on December 18 at 12:03 a.m. (05:03 UTC) from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 2 (LC-2) at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS) on Wallops Island, Virginia, deployed four DiskSat spacecraft to a 550km low Earth orbit. DiskSat, developed by The Aerospace Corporation and funded by NASA's Small Spacecraft & Distributed Systems program, is a proposed alternative to CubeSat satellites, aiming to improve the build, integration, and cost of future small satellite missions. This launch is a testament to Rocket Lab's ability to provide affordable, responsive, and reliable launch solutions, solidifying its position as a leading space company.
Rocket Lab's founder and CEO, Sir Peter Beck, expressed pride in the company's performance, highlighting the flawless execution of the Electron launch. Beck emphasized the importance of Rocket Lab's speed, streamlined operations, and reliability in strengthening the nation's space capabilities. The launch also marks Electron's 20th mission of the year, further extending Rocket Lab's new annual launch record.
The STP-S30 mission's success is a result of exceptional teamwork and dedication from Rocket Lab, the Capability Development Branch, NASA, The Aerospace Corporation, and the Rocket Systems Launch Program. This achievement is a critical step towards integrating advanced technologies into future operational Space Force systems, ensuring the nation's edge in space. The early launch by five months demonstrates a commitment to rapidly delivering innovative capabilities to the Space Force.
The 'Don't Be Such A Square' launch images and webcast are available for public access, providing further insights into this remarkable mission. Rocket Lab's media contact, Murielle Baker, is available for inquiries at media@rocketlabusa.com. As a leading space company, Rocket Lab continues to innovate and advance space access and exploration, with a focus on serving commercial, government, and national security markets.
