spacetoday.net: Rocket Lab discloses details of Neutron rocket

Rocket Lab discloses details of Neutron rocket

Posted: Sun, Dec 5, 2021, 11:29 AM ET (1629 GMT)
Rocket Lab released new details Thursday about its Neutron reusable rocket. The medium-class rocket features a distinct design that includes a wide base with fixed landing legs and a payload fairing that remains attached to the rocket. The fairing will open in four pieces to release an expendable upper stage and payload, then close before the rocket lands back at the launch site. Rocket Lab is developing a new engine, Archimedes, that will power Neutron using methane and liquid oxygen propellants. Rocket Lab is aiming to have the vehicle ready for a first launch as soon as 2024, and is funding development using proceeds of its SPAC merger earlier this year.