Rocket Lab Expands Multi-Launch Partnership with iQPS Securing Eight Electron Missions

Rocket Lab Expands Multi-Launch Partnership with iQPS Securing Eight Electron Missions
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Feb 28, 2025

Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB) has signed its second multi-launch agreement with the Institute for Q-shu Pioneers of Space, Inc. (iQPS), significantly expanding their collaboration. This latest deal secures eight dedicated Electron launches for iQPS, reinforcing Rocket Lab's position as a leading provider of reliable satellite launch services.

The agreement builds upon a previous multi-launch contract signed in 2024, bringing iQPS' total reserved Electron missions to eight. Under these agreements, six launches are scheduled for 2025 and two in 2026. This follows the successful deployment of iQPS's QPS-SAR-5 satellite, "TSUKUYOMI-I," via an Electron rocket in December 2023. The deal represents one of the largest Electron launch contracts to date, second only to Rocket Lab's ten-launch agreement with Japanese satellite operator Synspective.

Each of these launches will contribute to the development of iQPS' planned constellation of 36 synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites. These satellites are designed to provide high-resolution Earth imaging capabilities regardless of time of day or weather conditions, delivering near real-time observation data globally. With exclusive use of each Electron mission, iQPS gains precise control over launch schedules, orbital parameters, and mission specifications, optimizing deployment for its growing satellite network.

Rocket Lab's founder and CEO, Sir Peter Beck, emphasized the importance of tailored launch solutions for constellation operators. Electron's strength lies in its ability to provide precise constellation deployment on a customized timeline. Accurate orbital positioning is crucial for Earth imaging missions, and the demand for this capability is reflected in our growing number of multi-launch contracts with returning customers like iQPS. We are honored to once again support iQPS in achieving its mission.

Dr. Shunsuke Onishi, CEO of iQPS, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: We are thrilled to expand our collaboration with Rocket Lab, securing additional dedicated Electron launches. Electron's high-frequency launch capability and reliability make it an excellent choice for our growing satellite constellation. This agreement is a significant milestone in our commitment to realizing our vision over the next two years.

The next Electron mission for iQPS is set for launch as early as March 2025, with additional details to be released closer to the launch date.