During a recent earnings call, Rocket Lab CEO Pete Beck confirmed that the much-anticipated Neutron rocket will not be ready for launch this year. This delay, while disappointing for some, aligns with industry experts’ insights on the complexities of developing a new launch vehicle.

Building a reliable rocket involves overcoming technical hurdles and rigorous testing, often leading to unforeseen setbacks. Industry analysts highlight that initial delays are almost inevitable, especially for medium-lift vehicles aiming for high performance and safety standards.

Beck announced that the first Neutron launch is now targeted for the first quarter of 2026 from Launch Complex 2 at Virginia’s Wallops Flight Facility. The company plans to conduct subsequent launches shortly after, aiming to establish Neutron as a reliable option for satellite deployment.

This postponement raises questions about the timeline for commercial and government payloads. Experts recommend that space companies prepare for such delays, emphasizing the importance of realistic planning and transparency with investors and clients.

David Nield

Dave is a freelance tech journalist with over 20 years covering gadgets, apps, and the web. From Stockport, England, he covers news, features, and reviews for TechRadar, focusing on phones, tablets, and wearables. He ensures top weekend breaking news and has bylines at Gizmodo, T3, PopSci, and others. He edited PC Explorer and The Hardware Handbook for years. Read me on x.com or linkedin.