Rocket Lab Corporation, a global leader in launch services and space systems, celebrated the official opening of Launch Complex 3, its dedicated test, launch, and landing facility for its reusable rocket Neutron - representing a bold step forward in delivering an alternative, reliable, and responsive launch capability from U.S. soil with its next-generation challenger to the medium-lift launch industry.
Located within the Virginia Spaceport Authority’s (VSA) Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS) at Pad 0D on Wallops Island, Virginia, Launch Complex 3 stands ready to deliver the largest orbital launch capacity in the Spaceport’s history with Neutron: Rocket Lab’s reusable launch vehicle capable of launching 13,000kg (33,000 pounds) to space for commercial constellations, national security and interplanetary missions, and eventually human spaceflight.
Rocket Lab founder and CEO, Sir Peter Beck, says: “Launch Complex 3 is our commitment to providing assured access to space and the launch site diversity that’s needed in the United States for its most important missions. Our Neutron rocket, with its ability for responsive space access as a high cadence reusable launch vehicle, expands Virginia’s aerospace capabilities to enable the United States to quickly and reliably reach the International Space Station and low Earth orbit, as well as explore beyond Earth and on to the Moon and Mars. Together with the Commonwealth of Virginia, VSA, and NASA, we’re strengthening the nation’s leadership in space while creating new opportunities for innovation and growth in the state and beyond, and I’m thankful for their continued support of Rocket Lab in Virginia.”
Rocket Lab Vice President – Neutron, Shaun D’Mello, says: “Launch Complex 3 is an incredibly complex engineering feat that serves as a monument to exquisite design, streamlined operations, and the competitive advantage of Rocket Lab’s speed and efficiency. That Launch Complex 3 was built and is now operational in less than two years of construction is down to the unwavering dedication from our Virginia-based team of 60+ highly skilled staff, and the continued support, investment, and commitment from our partners in the state of Virginia. I’m excited to bring a new launch capability to Wallops Island with Neutron ahead of its maiden flight from Launch Complex 3.”
Governor of Virginia, Glenn Youngkin: “The opening of Launch Complex 3 at Pad 0-D is not only an engineering achievement, but a bold step forward for Virginia’s growing role in our nation’s commercial space industry. From right here on Virginia’s beautiful Eastern Shore, Neutron will deliver reliable and responsive launch capabilities, supporting national security while creating opportunities for innovation and economic growth. Thank you to Sir Peter Beck and the Rocket Lab team for choosing to invest and grow right here in the Commonwealth.”
Congresswoman Jen Kiggans: “American ingenuity and innovation in the aerospace industry is essential to strengthening our national security. The capabilities at Launch Complex 3 are extraordinary, and they mark an important milestone in expanding U.S. launch capabilities, advancing technology, and driving economic growth right here in Virginia. This investment not only reinforces America’s position as leading the world in commercial rocket launch, but also highlights the incredible role the Commonwealth plays in shaping the future of aerospace.”
Virginia Secretary of Transportation W. Sheppard Miller III: “Once again, we see leading aerospace companies choosing Virginia because of our infrastructure. Whether that infrastructure is a road, bridge, railroad, seaport, airport or even a spaceport, we know that Virginia has it all. Our willingness to invest in and provide top-notch infrastructure assets provides companies like Rocket Lab exactly what they need to grow and thrive, and I’m thrilled that Rocket Lab has chosen once more to innovate right here at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport.”
Roosevelt Mercer, Jr., Maj Gen, USAF (Ret.), CEO & Executive Director of the Virginia Spaceport Authority: “Virginia’s spaceport is one of the Commonwealth’s most strategic assets. By expanding our capabilities and partnering with world-class companies like Rocket Lab, we are securing Virginia’s place at the forefront of the space industry, positively impacting Virginia’s economy and providing assured access to space for the nation.”