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

Electron

Launch vehicle

Fasten Your Space Belts (BlackSky Gen-3 1)

Mission

-39.2628

Latitude

177.8645

Longitude

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.