Rocket Lab launches Japanese Earth-observing satellite after 5-week delay (video, photos)

Rocket Lab successfully executed the launch of the Echostar X2 Mission, carrying the Japanese Earth-observing satellite for iQPS on August 6th. The launch occurred in a mission that experienced a five-week delay compared to the initial schedule announcement. This marked Rocket Lab’s eighth dedicated mission for iQPS, solidifying their partnership and demonstrating continued support for high-resolution earth imaging capabilities. The launch utilized Electron rocket from Launch Complex 1 on the island of New Zealand. Following the successful deployment of the satellite into its target orbit, further observation data will be collected.