Rocket Lab Successfully Reuses Engine for Electron Launch
Rocket Lab successfully reused an engine on an Electron rocket launch, bringing them closer to reusing the entire booster. The rocket lifted off from New Zealand and deployed a Capella Space radar imaging satellite into orbit. The launch was initially delayed due to low igniter pressure in one engine, prompting Rocket Lab to replace the entire booster with a new one designed for recovery. The new booster included an engine that had previously flown on an Electron launch in May 2022, confirming its ability to be flown again. Rocket Lab aims to schedule the first reflight of a full stage booster after reflying a Rutherford engine.