[Updated] A Sky Full Of SARs: Rocket Lab Successfully Launched Its Electron Rocket

A Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket will launch the Acadia-3 SAR satellite for Capella Space from the Launch Complex in New Zealand. Thr mission is called “A Sky Full of SARs”.

Capella Space is an American company which offers space-based radar Earth observation satellites equipped with synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) that can provide images even through clouds and at night. 

“Capella’s advanced radar technology penetrates all weather conditions – clouds, fog, smoke, rain – and captures clear imagery day and night, providing unparalleled insight into what is happening anywhere on the globe at any given moment.” – according to the Rocket Lab media press kit.

Update 12 August

On Sunday, 11 August, at 9:18 a.m. ET Rocket Lab has successfully launched the “A Sky Full of SARs” mission. Its Electron vehicle carrying an Earth-observing radar satellite lifted off from Rocket Lab’s New Zealand site as planned. About 57 minutes after launch, it successfully placed the Acadia-3 spacecraft into a circular orbit 382 miles (615 kilometres) above Earth.

A “Sky Full of SARS” marked Rocket Lab’s fifth launch for Capella Space. Additionally, this mission was Rocket Lab’s 10th launch of the year, marking the company’s 52nd orbital mission to date.

Update 19 July

Tonight, Rocket Lab has announced an update regarding its upcoming Electron launch. Initially scheduled for 20th of July, the launch has been postponed at the request of mission partner Capella Space, who needs additional time to complete testing.

As a result, the timeline for this launch is currently “To Be Determined”. In the meantime, Rocket Lab will shift its focus to the next mission in its manifest, which involves a collaboration with Synspective. This mission is expected to take place within the next few weeks, showcasing Rocket Lab’s flexibility and responsiveness to client needs.

About A Sky Full Of SARs mission

“A Sky Full of SARs” mission will be Rocket Lab’s fifth launch overall for Capella Space beginning in 2020. The mission will deploy Acadia-3, the next satellite to join Capella Space’s constellation of SAR satellites.

An Electron rocket will lift off from Launch Complex 1 on Māhia Peninsula, on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island.

It is owned and operated by private company Rocket Lab and supports launches of the company’s Electron rocket for small satellites.

“A Sky Full Of SARs” mission is scheduled to launch during a 14-day window that opens at 20:15 on 20 July BST.

Watch the live stream of the launch here.