Rocket Lab eight 500kg Lightning platforms reach orbit for MDA, GSAT
Rocket Lab says eight 500kg satellite platforms built for MDA Space and GSAT reached orbit after an August 15 Cape Canaveral launch, with contact established and nominal on-orbit power confirmed.
RKLB announced that eight 500kg satellite platforms built for MDA Space and $GSAT reached orbit after launching August 15 from Cape Canaveral.
The Details: • Contract scope: The launch covers the first eight of 17 satellite platforms under Rocket Lab's $143M subcontract with prime contractor MDA Space. • Operational status: Rocket Lab established contact with all eight satellites, confirming nominal performance and on-orbit power generation. • Platform details: The customized Lightning platforms feature in-house solar arrays, reaction wheels, avionics, TT&C radios, and software. • Defense pipeline: The Lightning satellite bus remains in production for additional constellations with the U.S.
Space Force and Space Development Agency.