
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.
Rocket Lab launched a satellite for a mystery customer on Thursday morning (Nov. 20).
The liftoff, which occurred at 7:43 a.m. EST (1243 GMT) from Rocket Lab's New Zealand site, came as something of a surprise. The company formally announced the impending launch of its workhorse Electron rocket less than five hours ahead of time.
The mission, called "Follow My Speed" was a complete success, Rocket Lab announced via X on Thursday morning.
"Today's 'Follow My Speed' mission marks 18 launches with 100% mission success for 2025 — more than any other year in Electron's history — making our rocket the most frequently flown orbital small launch vehicle in the world," the company said in another Thursday X post.
Fifteen of those 18 launches have been orbital missions. The other three were suborbital flights involving HASTE, a modified version of the 59-foot-tall (18-meter-tall) Electron that allows customers to test hypersonic technologies in the space environment.
We don't know much about "Follow My Speed."
Rocket Lab described the mission in vague terms only, saying that its goal was "to deploy a single satellite for a confidential commercial customer."
Keeping things so close to the vest isn't exactly odd for launch companies, who regularly loft national-security payloads or commercial satellites with sensitive, proprietary tech. Rocket Lab, for example, launched five satellites for a confidential customer just three months ago.
LATEST POSTS
- 1
The Universe of Impeccable Pearls: A Manual for Valuable Gems - 2
A definitive Cruiser Standoff: Decision in favor of Your #1 Ride - 3
Peruvian ex-President Martin Vizcarra sentenced to 14 years in prison - 4
Virtual reality opens doors for older people to build closer connections in real life - 5
5 Different ways Macintosh is Prepared to Overwhelm Gaming, Even Against Windows
Figure out How to Assess the Unwavering quality of SUVs for Seniors
Allow Innovative Progressions To have a Tremendous Effect
The Best 15 Applications for Efficiency and Association
Dental Embed Developments: Upsetting Current Dentistry
Overhaul Your Rest: Tips for a Serene Evening
Congolese rape survivors search in vain for medicine after USAID cuts
21 Incredibly Entertaining Contemplations To Observe Consistently
'Dancing with the Stars' semifinals: How to watch Episode 10 tonight, where to stream, who's left and more
Geminid meteor shower 2025 peaks next week. Here's what you need to know about this year's best meteor shower













