Rocketlab says the future at Wallops is bright

A representative from Rocket Lab provided an update on the company’s Wallops operation at the Accomack County Board of Supervisors’ meeting Wednesday night. Jennifer Goodrun told the Board that Rocket Lab is committed to becoming a full-service launch provider. She explained that Rocket Lab not only offers launch vehicles but also builds satellites and designs components. The company’s ultimate goal is to be a one-stop service where customers can come with an idea, and have it designed, built, and launched.

Goodrun shared that Rocket Lab is second in the United States for rocket launches and third worldwide. The company recently reached 50 launches with their Electron boosters, some of which involve national security matters, explaining why not all Wallops launches are publicized.

While the Electron is currently Rocket Lab’s main launch vehicle, Goodrun said the company is aiming to debut a larger vehicle, the Neutron, at Wallops in 2026. The Neutron will be 140 feet long, 25 feet in diameter, and capable of carrying 40 times the payload of the Electron. It will also be reusable, making it the largest booster to launch from Wallops. In the future, it could even carry humans into space.

Goodrun also discussed the company’s desire for water access to Wallops Island to unload Neutron components. Although the Queen Sound ramp was considered, it has been moved lower on the list due to public concerns. The best option, she said, would be to build a landing area on the backside of Wallops.

Looking ahead, Goodrun is optimistic about the future of both Wallops Flight Facility and the surrounding area. She pointed out that as the space industry grows rapidly, other launch sites like Cape Canaveral are reaching capacity, which will benefit Wallops. Not only will this create good jobs, but it will also boost associated industries and tourism through more launches.