Rocket Lab delays Neutron's first launch until 2027

Summary

Rocket Lab has delayed the first launch of its Neutron rocket until 2027, with reports citing problems involving carbon composites or a manufacturing issue. Space.com describes Neutron as a powerful, partially reusable launcher. Ars Technica notes that Rocket Lab announced the rocket in 2021 with a first flight targeted for 2024.

Timeline

1. The Register

   15 Oct 2026, 12:15 UTCSource ↗

   The Register reports that Rocket Lab pushed Neutron's first launch back to 2027, citing problems with carbon composites.

2. Ars Technica

   15 Oct 2026, 16:57 UTCSource ↗

   Ars Technica reports another delay for Neutron amid carbon-composite trouble and says the rocket was announced in 2021 with a first flight aimed for 2024.

3. Space.com

   16 Oct 2026, 12:00 UTCSource ↗

   Space.com reports that Rocket Lab delayed Neutron's debut until 2027 because of a manufacturing issue and describes it as a powerful, partially reusable launcher.