Rocket Lab Corp. (NASDAQ:RKLB) pushed the first launch of its Neutron rocket into 2027 on Wednesday, confirming a schedule setback after previously warning that a debut this year was becoming less likely.
The announcement leaves investors waiting longer for a rocket central to the company’s expansion into larger launch missions.
“Today we shared an update on Neutron’s development, including adjusting the schedule for flight one to 2027,” Rocket Lab wrote on X.
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Warning Becomes a Delay
The update follows a shift in August, when Rocket Lab targeted getting Neutron to the launch pad in the fourth quarter rather than committing to launching during that period. The company had previously targeted an inaugural flight in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Reaching the launch pad and completing a maiden flight are distinct milestones in the development process.
“The window for an end-of-year launch is narrowing,” CEO Peter Beck said in August, according to Reuters. Management was increasingly focused on preparing Neutron to support a faster cadence of missions after its debut.
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Neutron is a reusable, medium-lift rocket designed to help Rocket Lab compete for larger commercial satellite, civil-space and U.S. national-security missions. It also plays a role in the company’s own satellite plans.
Rocket Lab has been spending heavily on Neutron’s development, launch infrastructure and production preparations, while signing customers ahead of its debut. The revised timeline moves that first-flight milestone into next year, extending the wait for a demonstration of the new vehicle’s capabilities.
RKLB Stock Price Activity: Rocket Lab shares were down 8.52% at $54.60 during after-hours trading Wednesday, according to Benzinga Pro. The stock had already fallen 7.85% during the regular session to close at $59.18.
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