Rocket Lab has launched an Electron rocket into space for the first time with a used engine
Rocket Lab was able to successfully launch a rocket equipped with used components. Specifically, the engine.
Here's What We Know
The aerospace company is trying to start reusing components in rockets like SpaceX does. Rocket Lab sent an Electron rocket into space on 24 August at 19:45 (EDT) or 16:45 (PDT) that had one of its nine engines that was not new. It had been used in the spring of this year.
40 launches...and counting ????
- Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) August 24, 2023
Congratulations to our extraordinary team and thank you to our customers and mission partners for your unwavering support. We've built something pretty special together. pic.twitter.com/E3nL74dc1U
The mission went according to plan. The launch vehicle put a remote sensing satellite into orbit, manufactured by US company Capella Space. The launch, which was the 40th for Rocket Lab, was originally scheduled for the end of last month, but was delayed.
Congratulations to our mission partners @capellaspace - welcome to orbit, Acadia! #WeLoveTheNightlife was our third mission for Capella and we already can't wait for the next one ????????️ pic.twitter.com/E0If3yUemk
- Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) August 24, 2023
The aerospace company is considering different ways to bring a spent rocket back to Earth. Previously, Rocket Lab tried to catch the Electron using a helicopter. Due to a lack of space for fuel for now, the rocket is lowered into the ocean using a parachute system. Then it is boxed to the shore, and specialists replace worn components with new ones after analysing them.
Source: space
