Rocket Lab Corporation (NASDAQ: RKLB) experienced a notable increase in its stock price on December 18, 2023, following the successful completion of its STP-S30 mission, aptly titled “Don’t Be Such A Square.” This mission was conducted for the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command, underscoring Rocket Lab’s capability to provide low-cost, reliable, and responsive launch services for national security purposes.
Significance of the Launch
The STP-S30 mission marks Rocket Lab’s fourth launch from Launch Complex 2 in the past three months, all of which support the Department of War’s objectives in defense and space technology. Impressively, Rocket Lab delivered this launch five months ahead of schedule, advancing key technologies essential for maintaining U.S. leadership in space. Originally slated for April 2026, the launch was expedited, demonstrating the company’s industry-leading responsive launch capabilities.
The mission took place at 12:03 a.m. ET (05:03 UTC) from Rocket Lab’s facility at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport on Wallops Island, Virginia. The Electron rocket successfully deployed four DiskSat spacecraft into a low Earth orbit at an altitude of 550 kilometers. Developed by the Aerospace Corporation, these DiskSats were managed by the Space Systems Command’s System Delta 89, led by Lt. Col. Cesar Rodriguez, and funded through NASA’s Small Spacecraft & Distributed Systems program.
Record-Breaking Achievements
The “Don’t Be Such A Square” mission is particularly significant as it represents Electron’s 20th launch of the year and its 78th mission overall, further extending Rocket Lab’s annual launch record. Sir Peter Beck, founder and CEO of Rocket Lab, expressed pride in the company’s consistent performance, stating, “We’re meeting the space access demands of the U.S. Space Force with our consistent execution, and this launch is another proud moment in Rocket Lab’s long history of successful missions for defense, national security, and commercial space users.”
Lt. Col. Brian Shimek, Director of the Department of War Space Test Program, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving this milestone. He noted, “We are immensely proud of this collaboration with Rocket Lab, the Capability Development Branch, NASA, The Aerospace Corporation, and the Rocket Systems Launch Program. Their exceptional teamwork and dedication have made this achievement possible. Proving these advanced technologies in the space environment is a critical step towards their integration into future operational Space Force systems, ensuring our nation maintains its edge in space.”
During premarket trading on December 18, Rocket Lab shares increased by 1.17%, reaching a price of $54.59, according to data from Benzinga Pro. The mission not only highlights Rocket Lab’s innovation and leadership in the aerospace sector but also reiterates the growing demand for reliable and efficient launch services in support of national security initiatives.
