# Electron

> two-stage orbital launch vehicle

**Wikidata**: [Q18471030](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q18471030)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab_Electron)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/electron

## Summary
The Electron is a two-stage orbital launch vehicle developed by Rocket Lab, designed to deploy small payloads to low-Earth orbit. It is notable for its partial reusability and cost-effective launch services, particularly for small satellite operators. First launched in 2017, it plays a key role in the commercial space industry by providing frequent and flexible access to space.

## Key Facts
- **Developer/Manufacturer**: Rocket Lab (New Zealand/United States).
- **First Launch**: May 25, 2017.
- **Payload Capacity**: 150 kg to low-Earth orbit.
- **Dimensions**: 17 meters tall, 1.2 meters in diameter, with a mass of 12,500 kg.
- **Engine**: Powered by nine Rutherford engines (3D-printed, liquid-fueled).
- **Reusability**: Partially reusable (first-stage booster recovery via mid-air helicopter capture).
- **Notable Missions**: Deployed satellites like CAPSTONE, Starling, and NASA’s PREFIRE.
- **Classification**: Small-lift launch vehicle, two-stage-to-orbit.

## FAQs
### Q: Who developed the Electron rocket?
A: The Electron was developed by Rocket Lab, a company founded in New Zealand with operations in the United States.

### Q: What is the maximum payload capacity of Electron?
A: Electron can carry up to 150 kg (330 lbs) to low-Earth orbit.

### Q: Is the Electron rocket reusable?
A: Yes, Electron features partial reusability. The first-stage booster is recovered post-launch via mid-air helicopter capture for potential refurbishment and reuse.

## Why It Matters
The Electron rocket has democratized access to space for small satellite operators, offering a cost-effective and flexible launch solution. Its development by Rocket Lab marked a milestone for New Zealand, which became the 11th country to reach orbit with the rocket’s 2017 debut. Electron’s innovative use of 3D-printed engines and streamlined production processes has reduced launch costs and increased mission frequency, supporting applications like Earth observation, scientific research, and technology demonstrations. By focusing on small payloads, Electron fills a critical niche in the commercial space market, enabling startups, universities, and governments to deploy satellites without relying on larger, more expensive rockets.

## Notable For
- **First Privately Funded Launch from New Zealand**: Electron’s 2017 debut made New Zealand the 11th country to achieve orbital launch capability.
- **3D-Printed Engines**: Uses Rutherford engines with 3D-printed components, reducing manufacturing time and cost.
- **High Launch Frequency**: Designed for rapid turnaround, with the ability to launch multiple missions per year from Rocket Lab’s private launch complex.
- **CAPSTONE Mission**: Successfully deployed NASA’s CAPSTONE satellite to test orbits for the Lunar Gateway.
- **Partial Reusability**: Demonstrated mid-air recovery of first-stage boosters, advancing sustainable space technologies.

## Body
### Development and Design
Electron is manufactured by Rocket Lab, with primary development in New Zealand and operations in the U.S. It stands 17 meters tall with a 1.2-meter diameter and a launch mass of 12,500 kg. The rocket uses nine Rutherford engines (sea-level and vacuum variants), which are 3D-printed and fueled by liquid oxygen and kerosene.

### Operational History
- **Maiden Launch**: January 2018 (first successful orbital deployment).
- **Notable Payloads**: Deployed satellites for NASA (PREFIRE, CAPSTONE), commercial entities (Capella Space), and educational projects (IRVINE01).
- **Reusability Milestone**: First mid-air booster recovery achieved in 2023.

### Capabilities
- **Payload Fairing**: Accommodates payloads up to 1.5 meters in diameter.
- **Orbit Options**: Delivers satellites to low-Earth orbit, sun-synchronous orbit, and lunar transfer trajectories.
- **Launch Sites**: Primarily launches from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand, with additional sites in the U.S.

## Schema Markup
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Rocket",
  "name": "Electron",
  "description": "Two-stage orbital launch vehicle developed by Rocket Lab for small satellite deployments.",
  "manufacturer": "Rocket Lab",
  "height": "17 meters",
  "diameter": "1.2 meters",
  "mass": "12,500 kg",
  "payloadCapacity": "150 kg",
  "dateOfFirstLaunch": "2017-05-25",
  "countryOfOrigin": ["New Zealand", "United States"],
  "sameAs": [
    "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q19804404",
    "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab_Electron"
  ],
  "additionalType": ["Small-lift launch vehicle", "Partially reusable launch vehicle"]
}