The Final Sprint: Neutron’s Path from Factory to Flight
Rocket Lab is transitioning Neutron from manufacturing to integration and testing. This post details the specific remaining qualification and testing milestones—from static fires to regulatory approval—required for a maiden flight from Wallops.
With Rocket Lab targeting a Q1 arrival at the pad for Neutron, the program is transitioning from manufacturing to the integration and testing phase.
Reviewing Rocket Lab’s official "Path to Lift-Off," the remaining "yellow" and "non-green" milestones outline the specific hurdles left to clear. While the hardware is built and key assets like the fairing and Stage 2 structure are qualified, the following steps stand between the factory and orbit:
Qualification & Testing:
- Flight Mechanisms Test Program: Testing critical mechanisms including separation systems, fairing actuation, and control surfaces.
- Engine Qualification: Final flight readiness certification for the Archimedes engine.
- Stage 1 Qualification: Verifying the structure and systems of the first stage.
Launch Site & Integration:
- Regulatory Approval for Launch: Securing the license to fly from Launch Complex 3.
- Vehicle Integration: Stacking the full flight vehicle.
The Pad Flow (Testing Like We Fly):
- Stage 2 Static Fire: Hot fire test of the vacuum Archimedes engine.
- Stage 1 Static Fire: Hot fire test of the 9-engine cluster.
- Wet Dress Rehearsal: Full launch countdown rehearsal with propellant loading.
- LAUNCH: Neutron takes to the skies.
The manufacturing heavy lifting is largely complete. The next phase is defined by these specific qualification, integration, and testing gates.
See the full timeline here: Neutron Path to Lift-Off
