Rocket Lab Schedules Launch Date for 45th Electron Mission to Deploy Earth-Imaging Satellite for Synspective

Rocket Lab Schedules Launch Date for 45th Electron Mission to Deploy Earth-Imaging Satellite for Synspective
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Feb 22, 2024

Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB) has announced the upcoming launch window for its 45th Electron mission, a dedicated effort aimed at deploying an Earth-imaging satellite for Synspective, a leading Japanese satellite constellation operator. The mission, christened "Owl Night Long," is slated for a 14-day launch window commencing on March 10th NZDT (March 9th UTC), setting the stage from Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand. This mission will see the deployment of the StriX-3 satellite into orbit, marking a continued collaboration between Rocket Lab and Synspective under a multi-launch agreement to deliver Synspective's StriX-series satellites to low Earth orbit.

Synspective, known for its satellite data solutions, operates its constellation using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology. SAR's capability to transmit microwave pulses towards Earth and receive reflected signals allows it to generate images regardless of weather conditions or time of day. This feature is particularly useful for continuous monitoring and change detection in various terrains and structures, making SAR invaluable for capturing economic and environmental shifts.

Rocket Lab's "Owl Night Long" mission signifies its fourth launch for Synspective, following three successful missions: "The Owls' Night Begins" in December 2020, "The Owl's Night Continues" in February 2022, and "The Owl Spreads its Wings" in September 2022. This ongoing partnership underscores Rocket Lab's role as Synspective's exclusive launch provider, demonstrating a strong collaboration in advancing Earth-imaging capabilities.

The Electron rocket's dedicated payload arrangement offers Synspective significant control over launch schedules and orbital deployment parameters. This is crucial for the StriX constellation, which benefits from a unique deployment requirement. The Electron's Kick Stage performs an advanced mid-mission maneuver to shield the StriX satellite from sun exposure, reducing radiation damage before payload deployment. Such mission customization is a testament to the tailored, precise services Rocket Lab offers, distinguishing it from larger rideshare missions.

Peter Beck, Rocket Lab's founder and Chief Executive, expressed enthusiasm about the ongoing partnership, stating, "We're excited to continue our strong partnership with Synspective having been their sole launch provider to date. Electron delivers a tailored, customized launch service that offers Synspective a rare level of precision deployment to ensure their satellites are placed in perfect orbits on rapid timelines. We look forward to helping another owl take flight and expanding Synspective's constellation."

Echoing this sentiment, Synspective's founder and CEO, Dr. Motoyuki Arai, highlighted the significance of this collaboration for their satellite operations. "I am delighted to be able to take on another challenge with the Rocket Lab team, who have led us to launch three satellites into their target orbits successfully," Dr. Arai said. He also acknowledged the collective efforts behind the StriX-3 project, emphasizing the satellite's role in expanding data services and supporting Synspective's business growth through full-scale constellation operations.

StriX-3's deployment marks a pivotal step for Synspective, enabling enhanced data supply and analysis capabilities crucial for addressing sustainable development challenges. Through increased satellite operations and data analytics, Synspective aims to foster societal progress with data-driven insights and collective learning.