Posted: Sat, Feb 24, 2024, 9:37 AM ET (1437 GMT)
An Astroscale inspection satellite is in orbit after a launch on a Rocket Lab Electron Sunday. The Electron lifted off from the company's New Zealand launch site at 9:52 am EST (1452 GMT) and deployed the ADRAS-J satellite into orbit a little more than an hour later. ADRAS-J, or Active Debris Removal by Astroscale-Japan, will approach and inspect an H-2A upper stage left in orbit after a 2009 launch. The mission is a precursor to a potential future mission to attempt to deorbit the stage.

Related Links:

•  SpaceNews article
•  Newstalk ZB article
•  Rocket Lab press release