Home / Science / Virginia Prepares for 5x Speed of Sound Launch
Virginia Prepares for 5x Speed of Sound Launch
12 Jun
Summary
- Rocket Lab plans a June 11 launch of its HASTE spacecraft.
- The mission, codenamed 'Curveball,' will reach five times the speed of sound.
- This launch is from Virginia's Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport.
Rocket Lab is preparing for a potentially significant launch from Virginia on June 11, targeting a hypersonic flight for a government mission codenamed 'Curveball.' This mission will utilize the HASTE vehicle, a modified version of Rocket Lab's Electron rocket, capable of reaching speeds five times the speed of sound.
The launch is scheduled to originate from Launch Complex 2 at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport, located within NASA's Wallops Flight Facility. This event follows previous hypersonic flights conducted by Rocket Lab from the same location, offering spectators a chance to witness extreme speeds.
Beyond this specific mission, Rocket Lab is also advancing its larger Neutron rocket, designed for orbital flights and seen as a potential competitor to SpaceX's Falcon 9. The Neutron rocket's maiden voyage is anticipated by the end of 2026, featuring innovative reusable technology with its 'Hungry Hippo' fairing.
Rocket Lab, a California-based company founded in 2006, has established a significant launch presence in Virginia, operating two launch sites there in addition to its New Zealand facility. The Wallops Flight Facility itself has a long history, established in 1945, supporting various scientific and military missions.
