Electron

Electron is Rocket Lab's small launcher, built in New Zealand with 3D-printed Rutherford engines whose propellant pumps are driven by electric motors. After reaching orbit for the first time in January 2018 it becomes the most frequently launched small rocket in the world, flying from Mahia Peninsula and Wallops Island to give small satellites dedicated rides to orbit. Some of its first stages are recovered from the sea.

Launches

89

Success rate

96%

4 failures

First flight

25 May 2017

It's a Test

Last flight

26 September 2026

Owlright, Owlright, Owlright (StriX Launch 13)

Builder

Rocket Lab

Height

18 m

Diameter

1.2 m

Stages

3

Propellants

Kerosene / LOX, Green propellant / LOX

Payload to LEO

300 kg

Payload to SSO

225 kg