Launch details
Electron | Fasten Your Space Belts (BlackSky Gen-3 1)
Launch details
Electron | Fasten Your Space Belts (BlackSky Gen-3 1)
Rocket Lab
Commercial • USA
Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1B
Onenui Station
Feb 19 at 12:15pm
Launchpad time•+1200
Feb 18 at 11:15pm
Your local time•+0000
Current status
Go for Launch
Fasten Your Space Belts (BlackSky Gen-3 1)
Mission
Get notification
24 hours before launch
Get notification
1 hour before launch
Note: For all launches the scheduled launch dates and times are subject to change due to weather, equipment, crew and other factors.
Mission description
The first of five BlackSky Technology missions to deploy its new next-generation BlackSky Gen-3 satellites. The commercial constellation of Gen-3 satellites has the capability to produce imagery with 50-centimeter resolution and host multiple sensors, including in shortwave infrared (SWIR). The improved resolution and enhanced spectral diversity of the Gen-3 satellites will expand BlackSky's ability to provide real-time information to its customers.
— Fasten Your Space Belts (BlackSky Gen-3 1)
Livestream
Attending a launch in person
Viewing from the launch site is restricted to site personnel. All areas on the peninsula with a view of the launch are typically closed off on launch day. As such there are usually no publically-accessible spots to view launches at Onenui Station.
This may change in the future as Rocket Lab's commercial operations ramp up.
How to get there
The closest airport is Hawke's Bay Airport (aka Napier Airport) in Napier. From the airport take a rental car 3 hours north to Māhia. Alternatively take a bus to Māhia Peninsula and a taxi the rest of the way. Buses are infrequent in this area as it is mostly rural.
Note that Onenui Station is private property and does not allow general access to the public.
Accomodation
Nearby hotels in Māhia Peninsula.
Nearby parking
Parking not available on-site.
Agency details
Rocket Lab is a private aerospace company specializing in small satellite launches. It offers cost-effective, frequent launch services with its Electron rocket. Known for its innovative Rutherford engine and the Photon satellite platform, Rocket Lab supports various commercial and government missions.