Rocket Lab, a prominent space company, has successfully secured an $8 million contract from the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to further develop digital engineering processes for its Archimedes rocket engine. This advanced engine is destined to power the company's upcoming Neutron launch vehicle, a new reusable medium-lift launch vehicle projected to debut in 2025.
The contract signifies the military's growing interest in the Neutron as a potential candidate for government missions under the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program. Rocket Lab aims to utilize the contract to enhance the integration of Neutron into the NSSL program.
“This project supports smoother integration of Neutron to the NSSL program,” stated Rocket Lab CEO Peter Beck.
Rocket Lab has recently confirmed its intention to submit a bid for NSSL Phase 3 Lane 1 missions, which are specifically open to new entrant providers. This move reflects the company's strategic ambition to expand its presence in the national security space sector.
While Rocket Lab has solidified its position as a dominant force in the small launcher market with its Electron rocket, the company has strategically invested in developing the larger Neutron. This development is driven by the rising demand from satellite constellation operators and the U.S. military.
The Archimedes engine, designed to operate on liquid oxygen and methane propellants, will power both stages of the Neutron. The Neutron is capable of carrying up to 13,000 kg to low Earth orbit, making it a versatile launch platform.
Frank Friedl, the AFRL program leader, highlighted the project's role in advancing the lab's broader goals of developing a comprehensive digital engineering technology ecosystem. This ecosystem aims to streamline space programs, reducing costs, schedules, and risks across the board.
The contract encompasses options to expand digital engineering applications across the entire Neutron propulsion system. Furthermore, it seeks to establish a robust digital engineering framework specifically tailored for NSSL Phase 3 Lane 1 providers.