Electron | The Lightning God Defends (iQPS Launch 8)

A Electron rocket launched Electron | The Lightning God Defends (iQPS Launch 8) from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1, Mahia Peninsula, New Zealand, targeting LEO.

Launch time
Status
SUCCESS
Operator
Rocket Lab
Mission type
Earth Science
Rocket
Electron
Launch site
Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1, Mahia Peninsula, New Zealand
Launch pad
Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1B
Payload
—
Target orbit
LEO
Electron | The Lightning God Defends (iQPS Launch 8) cover image

Mission timeline

  1. 2026-08-20T13:04:45.000Z
    Liftoff
    Liftoff confirmed — Electron is airborne.
  2. Max-Q
    Max Q — Electron endures peak structural stress during ascent.
  3. Main engine cutoff (MECO)
    First-stage main engine cutoff (MECO) confirmed.
  4. Stage separation
    The spent first stage separates from the upper stage.
  5. Second-stage ignition
    Upper stage ignites, continuing the journey toward orbit.
  6. Orbit insertion
    The mission reaches LEO, successfully entering orbit.
  7. Mission success
    The mission concludes successfully.

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