Rocket Lab acquired Iridium, launched a satellite for Synspective, and competition intensified following SpaceX's IPO.

The entities involved

• Rocket Lab →

  U.S. & New Zealand aerospace manufacturer and launch service provider

  • Rocket Lab has reached a definitive agreement to acquire Iridium Communications Inc.Mon 17:55
  • Rocket Lab debuted on Nasdaq for its IPO, competing in the U.S. space sector.Mon 14:46
• iridium →

  chemical element with symbol Ir and atomic number 77

  • Rocket Lab announces major business developments, including contracts for Electron and Neutron rockets, hypersonic testing with Haste, and plans for a $8 billion Iridium acquisition.Thu 06:28
• Synspective →

  Japanese company

  • Rocket Lab successfully launched satellites for Synspective using its Electron rocket, placing them into orbit above Japan.Sat 01:40
  • The Rutherford engine is the core technology powering the Electron launch vehicle, which provides dedicated launch services for constellation deployments.Sat 01:40
• SpaceX →

  American private aerospace company

  • The UK defence ministry has adopted and begun using SpaceX's Starshield and Starlink services.Mon 17:54
  • Starship tests are currently being conducted, involving the vehicle's return to Earth.Mon 16:52

Related events

• Rocket Lab plans an $8 billion acquisition of Iridium, while IPO attention highlights competitive market dynamics.Jul 9
• Rocket Lab announces major business developments, including contracts for Electron and Neutron rockets, hypersonic testing with Haste, and plans for a $8 billion Iridium acquisition.Jul 9
• The FCC is reviewing Rocket Lab's pending acquisition of Iridium, amidst market scrutiny regarding payouts and competitive conduct from SpaceX.Aug 28
• Rocket Lab is integrating Mynaric and pursuing the acquisition of Iridium.Aug 15
• Rocket Lab secured contracts with SDA and Raytheon, alongside ongoing Neutron development and Iridium deal status.Sep 11