The Neutron from Rocket Lab is a Flight-Proven Satellite Launch Vehicle Platform designed for reusable satellite deployment, deep-space exploration, and future human spaceflight missions. Capable of delivering payloads of up to 13,000 Kg to low Earth orbit and up to 1,500 Kg to destinations such as Mars or Venus, it provides a versatile launch solution for commercial, scientific, and government missions. The vehicle stands 43 m tall with a diameter of 7 m and incorporates a 5 m payload fairing, enabling support for large satellites, constellation deployments, and complex exploration payloads.
This launch vehicle is powered by Rocket Lab’s Archimedes engine family, utilizing LOX and methane propellants in an oxidizer-rich closed-cycle architecture. The first stage integrates nine Archimedes engines generating a combined lift-off thrust of approximately 1,485,000 lbf, while the second stage employs a single vacuum-optimized Archimedes engine producing 890 kN (200,000 lbf) of thrust. With a total lift-off mass of 480,000 kg, the vehicle delivers the performance required for high-capacity orbital and interplanetary missions. The platform also incorporates a captive fairing architecture that enables reusability of both the first stage and fairing, supporting reduced operational costs and improved launch efficiency.
Built using lightweight carbon composite structures, the Neutron is optimized for scalable and sustainable launch operations. Its return-to-launch-site capability enhances reusability while supporting rapid mission turnaround and long-term operational efficiency. Advanced and versatile, the Neutron launch vehicle platform is ideal for satellite constellation deployment, national security missions, commercial space transportation, deep-space exploration, and future crewed missions requiring high payload capacity and reusable launch capability.
