Rocket Lab has successfully launched its Electron KS rocket from Onenui Station, Mahia Peninsula, New Zealand at 0500 GMT on 4 August following a delay.
The launch had been halted at T-minus 5 minutes and 15 seconds on 2 August, when it was originally scheduled to launch, due to high winds at the launch site in New Zealand.
Onboard the Electron KS rocket was ‘NRO L-199’ (RASR-4) – nicknamed “Antipodean Adventure” by Rocket Lab. The NRO L-199 designation by the NRO is in reference to the launch and not for the classified payload. The actual designation for the classified payload is unknown at this time.
In addition to the NRO, the Australian Department of Defense will use the satellite as part of a partnership.
Electron KS launch with NRO L-199 (RASR-4) onboard. Courtesy: Rocket Lab
