Rocket Lab Corporation completed its 81st Electron rocket launch on January 29, 2026, deploying an Earth-imaging satellite for the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). This mission marks Rocket Lab’s second launch within eight days, demonstrating the company’s growing launch cadence and reliability.
The satellite is part of an Earth-observation constellation developed by KAIST, a prominent South Korean university specializing in science and technology. The launch took place from Rocket Lab’s facility in Long Beach, California.
**Why this matters**
This launch highlights Rocket Lab’s expanding role in providing rapid and reliable access to space for international customers. The deployment of KAIST’s satellite constellation supports advancements in Earth observation, which can contribute to environmental monitoring, disaster management, and scientific research.