
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.
Rocket Lab launched a satellite for a mystery customer on Thursday morning (Nov. 20).
The liftoff, which occurred at 7:43 a.m. EST (1243 GMT) from Rocket Lab's New Zealand site, came as something of a surprise. The company formally announced the impending launch of its workhorse Electron rocket less than five hours ahead of time.
The mission, called "Follow My Speed" was a complete success, Rocket Lab announced via X on Thursday morning.
"Today's 'Follow My Speed' mission marks 18 launches with 100% mission success for 2025 — more than any other year in Electron's history — making our rocket the most frequently flown orbital small launch vehicle in the world," the company said in another Thursday X post.
Fifteen of those 18 launches have been orbital missions. The other three were suborbital flights involving HASTE, a modified version of the 59-foot-tall (18-meter-tall) Electron that allows customers to test hypersonic technologies in the space environment.
We don't know much about "Follow My Speed."
Rocket Lab described the mission in vague terms only, saying that its goal was "to deploy a single satellite for a confidential commercial customer."
Keeping things so close to the vest isn't exactly odd for launch companies, who regularly loft national-security payloads or commercial satellites with sensitive, proprietary tech. Rocket Lab, for example, launched five satellites for a confidential customer just three months ago.
LATEST POSTS
- 1
Wisconsin judge sends Slender Man attacker back to mental health institution after group home escape - 2
One third of Spanish pork export certificates blocked since swine fever outbreak, minister says - 3
Step by step instructions to Protect Your Senior Condo for Ideal Wellbeing and Solace - 4
Figure out How to Recognize the Right Areas for 5G Pinnacles\ - 5
Al-Sharaa denies he called for 80% of Syrians to return from Germany
Taylor Frankie Paul's domestic violence case is fueling discussions about DARVO. Experts say terms like this shouldn't be used lightly.
Phonetic Associations: A Survey of \Interfacing Worldwide People group\ Language Trade Application
Damaged launch pad: How long before Russia can send astronauts to the ISS again?
The Conclusive Manual for Spending plan Travel: Opening Undertakings on a Tight budget
'Euphoria' Season 3 trailer includes Eric Dane's final appearance, Jacob Elordi and Sydney Sweeney at the altar and Rue's 'Breaking Bad' era
Ukrainian Army Converts E38 BMW 7-Series Into Multiple Rocket Launch Platform
4 African Vacationer Locations
Remarkable Spots for Hot Air Swelling All over The Planet
Space station changes command, setting stage for Crew 11 departure













