Rocket Lab declares success on Space Force VICTUS HAZE mission

Rocket Lab said on July 7 it completed the U.S. Space Force's VICTUS HAZE tactically responsive space mission with full success, launching its Pioneer spacecraft on an Electron rocket just 16 hours and 42 minutes after the notice to launch - the fastest such response on record. The company commissioned the satellite in 38 hours against a 72-hour deadline and completed on-orbit rendezvous and proximity operations - tracking and photographing a target satellite - in under 59 hours. The demonstration showcases the rapid-response capabilities the Space Force wants for national-security missions.