Rocket Lab Corporation (RKLB) announced that its Neutron rocket’s Stage 1 tank ruptured during a hydrostatic pressure trial. The company noted that testing failures are not uncommon during qualification testing. “We intentionally test structures to their limits to validate structural integrity and safety margins to ensure the robust requirements for a successful launch can be comfortably met,” updated Rocket Lab (RKLB).
Notably, there was no significant damage to the test structure or facilities, the next Stage 1 tank is already in production, and Neutron’s development campaign continues as the RKLB team reviews the Stage 1 test data, which will determine the extent of the impact to Neutron’s launch schedule.
Weighing in on the development, BTIG analyst Andre Madrid said the firm expects Neutron to complete one test launch and one paid launch in 2026, followed by four paid launches in 2027, seven in 2028, and nine in 2029. “However, depending on investigation results, initial launches could be pushed to the right,” warned Madrid. The firm kept a Neutral rating on Rocket Lab (RKLB).
In a separate announcement, Rocket Lab (RKLB) said its first launch of 2026 was successful. The mission “The Cosmos Will See You Now” lifted off today from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 in Mahia, New Zealand. The mission successfully deployed two satellites into a 1,050 km circular Earth orbit for Open Cosmos, a first-time dedicated launch customer. The higher-altitude deployment showcased Electron’s wide payload trajectory range, maintaining its reputation as a versatile and dependable small spacecraft launch vehicle that meets diverse mission requirements.
Shares of Rocket Lab (RKLB) were down 1.5% in premarket trading on Thursday after shedding 1.5% on Thursday as well.