Author Topic: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates  (Read 55095 times)

Offline Hobbes-22

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Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« on: 03/23/2021 02:35 pm »
Updates Only thread for Neutron.

Neutron was announced on March 1, 2021.

From press release of Rocket Lab going public

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210301005403/en/Rocket-Lab-an-End-to-End-Space-Company-and-Global-Leader-in-Launch-to-Become-Publicly-Traded-Through-Merger-with-Vector-Acquisition-Corporation

Quote
Rocket Lab today unveiled its medium-lift Neutron rocket—an advanced new generation reusable launch vehicle with an 8-ton payload lift capacity tailored for mega constellations, deep space missions and human spaceflight. Neutron will be able to lift more than 90% of all satellites forecast to launch through 2029 and introduce highly disruptive lower costs to the high-growth constellation market by leveraging Electron’s heritage, launch sites and architecture.

From yesterday’s WSJ article:

Here’s the WSJ article bit on Neutron:

Quote
Rocket Lab is ex­pected to use pro­ceeds from the deal to fund de­vel­op­ment of a medium-lift “Neu­tron” launch ve­hi­cle tai­lored for use in satel­lite mega-con­stel­la­tions, space mis­sions and com­mer­cial space­flight, the peo­ple said. The Neu­tron rocket is ex­pected to be able to lift most satel­lites fore­cast to launch in the com­ing years and be po­si­tioned as a lower-cost al­ter­na­tive to larger ve­hi­cles, they said.

https://www.rocketlabusa.com/rockets/neutron/

Quote
NEUTRON OVERVIEW

HEIGHT 40 m / 131 ft
FAIRING DIAMETER 4.5 m
PAYLOAD TO LEO 8,000 kg
PAYLOAD TO VENUS 1500 kg
PROPELLANT LOX / Kerosene

LAUNCH ON REPEAT

Neutron features a reusable first stage designed to land on an ocean platform, enabling a high launch cadence and decreased launch costs for customers.

LAUNCHING FROM 2024
« Last Edit: 03/24/2021 01:38 pm by Hobbes-22 »

Offline Hobbes-22

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #1 on: 03/23/2021 03:37 pm »
https://www.rocketlabusa.com/about-us/updates/rocket-lab-unveils-plans-for-new-8-ton-class-reusable-rocket-for-mega-constellation-deployment/

Quote
Rocket Lab Unveils Plans for New 8-Ton Class Reusable Rocket for Mega-Constellation Deployment

The advanced new rocket, Neutron, will transform space access by delivering reliable and cost-effective launch services for satellite mega-constellations, deep space missions and human spaceflight

Long Beach, California., (March 1, 2021) -- Rocket Lab today unveiled plans for its Neutron rocket, an advanced 8-ton payload class launch vehicle tailored for mega-constellation deployment, interplanetary missions and human spaceflight.   

Neutron will build on Rocket Lab’s proven experience developing the reliable workhorse Electron launch vehicle, the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually since 2019. Where Electron provides dedicated access to orbit for small satellites of up to 300 kg (660 lb), Neutron will transform space access for satellite constellations and provide a dependable, high-flight-rate dedicated launch solution for larger commercial and government payloads.

“Rocket Lab solved small launch with Electron. Now we’re unlocking a new category with Neutron,” said Peter Beck, Rocket Lab founder and CEO. “We’ve listened to our customers and the message is clear - biggest doesn’t always mean best when it comes to constellation deployment. Efficiently building the mega constellations of the future requires launching multiple satellites in batches to different orbital planes. It’s a requirement that all too often sees large launch vehicles fly with payloads well below their full lift capacity, which is an incredibly expensive and inefficient way to build out a satellite constellation.  Neutron’s 8-ton lift capacity will make it ideally sized to deploy satellites in batches to specific orbital planes, creating a more targeted and streamlined approach to building out mega constellations.” 

Neutron will also provide a dedicated service to orbit for larger civil, defense and commercial payloads that need a level of schedule control and high-flight cadence not available on large and heavy lift rockets. Neutron will be capable of lifting 98% of all satellites forecast to launch through 2029 and will be able to introduce highly disruptive lower costs by leveraging Electron’s heritage, launch sites and architecture.

The medium-lift Neutron rocket will be a two-stage launch vehicle that stands 40 meters (131 feet) tall with a 4.5-meter (14.7 ft) diameter fairing and a lift capacity of up to 8,000 kg (8 metric tons) to low-Earth orbit, 2,000 kg to the Moon (2 metric tons), and 1,500 kg to Mars and Venus (1.5 metric tons). Neutron will feature a reusable first stage designed to land on an ocean platform, enabling a high launch cadence and decreased launch costs for customers. Initially designed for satellite payloads, Neutron will also be capable of International Space Station (ISS) resupply and human spaceflight missions.   

Neutron launches will take place from Virginia’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport located at the NASA Wallops Flight Facility. By leveraging the existing launch pad and integration infrastructure at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport, Rocket Lab eliminates the need to build a new pad, accelerating the timeline to first launch, expected in 2024.

Rocket Lab is assessing locations across America to establish a new state-of-the-art factory to support large-scale Neutron manufacturing, adding hundreds of jobs to the Rocket Lab team.

For more information on Rocket Lab, visit www.rocketlabusa.com and join the conversation at www.twitter.com/rocketlab

ENDS


Offline Hobbes-22

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #2 on: 03/23/2021 03:39 pm »
Presentation video:


Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #3 on: 09/08/2021 08:24 pm »
https://twitter.com/thesheetztweetz/status/1435700340775600135

Quote
One side note on Rocket Lab: CEO Peter Beck clarified that Neutron will have "a fully reusable first stage," not that it will necessarily be fully reusable.

But full Neutron reusability is something the company is "investigating," he told me. $RKLB

Edit to add:

https://twitter.com/thesheetztweetz/status/1435705273595924486

Quote
Beck: Rocket Lab continues "to make great progress" on Neutron development, with "a detailed development update in the coming months." $RKLB
« Last Edit: 09/08/2021 08:47 pm by FutureSpaceTourist »

Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #4 on: 09/08/2021 09:12 pm »
Upper stage reuse is lot harder to pull off. I like fact they aren't relying on it.

Neutron is probably to small to make any savings on up mass $kg but does give them access to downmass market. If in space manufacturing is to be successful it will need low cost downmass transport.



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Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #5 on: 09/25/2021 01:08 am »
RL to receive $24m towards US development. I think its to improve in orbit capabilities ie restarts and endurance. Saves adding expensive kick stage.

https://twitter.com/jeff_foust/status/1441536030176333826?s=19

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Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #6 on: 09/27/2021 02:50 pm »
RL press release regarding this contract. They are going after NSSL launch contracts, which is no surprise.

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210927005267/en/Rocket-Lab-Wins-24m-U.S.-Space-Force-Contract-to-Develop-Neutron-Upper-Stage?s=09

"
Existing NSSL launch providers include SpaceX and United Launch Alliance, and the awarding of this contract recognizes Rocket Lab as a potential NSSL Phase 3 Launch provider from 2025.
"

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #7 on: 09/27/2021 06:11 pm »
Total rocket height is now 46 meters according to official sources:

''The medium-lift Neutron will be a two-stage launch vehicle that stands 46 meters (150 feet) tall with a 5-meter (16.4 ft) diameter fairing and a lift capacity of up to 8,000 kg (8 metric tons) to low-Earth orbit, 2,000 kg to the Moon (2 metric tons), and 1,500 kg to Mars and Venus (1.5 metric tons).''

https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1819994/000119312521282501/d212874ds1.htm

Offline russianhalo117

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #8 on: 11/30/2021 06:51 am »
RL livestream regarding Neutron design downselect and development:


Offline russianhalo117

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #9 on: 12/02/2021 04:02 pm »
Condensed version:

« Last Edit: 12/02/2021 04:03 pm by russianhalo117 »

Offline Hobbes-22

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #10 on: 12/03/2021 12:03 pm »
Info from the video:

80% of satellites to be built in the next decade will be small sats or constellations.
Neutron is optimized for constellations, but can also do GEO, human space flight and interplanetary flight.

Designed to be reusable from the start.
No deployable landing legs, but permanent legs.

Upper stage has to be lightweight, high performance and low cost. Not reusable. US structure will be in tension, not compression. So it's hung from the payload separation plane. Lightest US in history.

Reentry is a thermal problem. Best solution: not have a thermal load. First stage is a cone: diameter at the top is smaller than the base to reduce the heat load.
Animation shows the widest part of the stage is at about 1/5 of the total height.

Height 40 m
Diameter at the base: 7 m
internal fairing diameter: 5 m

Payload to LEO: 8t reusable, 15t expendable
liftoff mass 480t

Rocket structure is carbon fibre. Automated fibre placement.

Archmedes engines, 7 on the first stage.
1 MN thrust, 320s Isp, Lox/Methane, gas generator cycle.
Low stress, high margins to make it easier to reuse.

Fairing in 4 petals attached to first stage, won't be jettisoned.

Aerodynamic control after reentry by canards at the top of the stage.
Landing is at launch site.

Launch site infrastructure minimized to reduce cost.


Offline jdon759

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #12 on: 05/02/2022 10:42 pm »
RL livestream () notes that Neutron can launch 13t to orbit.  I hadn't heard this number before.

(Edit: I meant to post this in the Neutron thread
Edit 2:  Thanks Zubenelgenubi & add source  (BTW links are quite annoying to post on this forum))

[zubenelgenubi: Split/merged.  In such situations, submit a "Report to Moderator" by using the button labeled as such in the lower right area of the post.]
« Last Edit: 05/03/2022 01:06 am by jdon759 »

Offline trimeta

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #13 on: 05/02/2022 11:41 pm »
The Neutron page has been updated to reflect 13,000kg, there's no more mention of 8,000kg anywhere. When I heard it mentioned in the stream, I thought it was just "8,000kg reused, 13,000kg expended," but with 8,000kg omitted entirely, maybe this is an upgrade and it's 13,000kg reused.

Offline sanman

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #14 on: 05/03/2022 01:33 am »
The Neutron page has been updated to reflect 13,000kg, there's no more mention of 8,000kg anywhere. When I heard it mentioned in the stream, I thought it was just "8,000kg reused, 13,000kg expended," but with 8,000kg omitted entirely, maybe this is an upgrade and it's 13,000kg reused.

But does that then imply that non-reusable now has an even greater payload, whose amount they're not mentioning?
Because surely the payload mass for reusable and non-reusable can't be identical.

Maybe they're now only using the non-reusable number, because it's the more impressive number.

Offline trimeta

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #15 on: 05/03/2022 01:59 am »
Based on the Wayback Machine, the change happened some time between April 1st and 14th. To sanman's point, the page used to say "Payload to LEO: 8,000kg; Max Payload to LEO: 15,000kg." Now it just says "Payload to LEO: 13,000kg." So would be rather misleading to switch from "Payload to LEO" meaning reusable (while "Max Payload to LEO" was reserved for expendable) to "Payload to LEO" meaning expendable.

Offline Galactic Penguin SST

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #16 on: 05/03/2022 02:00 am »
They mentioned on the launch webcast today that the launch pad and integration building/LCC for Neutron has now started construction at Wallops. Does anybody know where exactly at Wallops/MARS the pad will be at?
Astronomy & spaceflight geek penguin. In a relationship w/ Space Shuttle Discovery. Current Priority: Chasing the Chinese Spaceflight Wonder Egg & A Certain Chinese Mars Rover

Offline sanman

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #17 on: 05/03/2022 03:36 am »
Based on the Wayback Machine, the change happened some time between April 1st and 14th. To sanman's point, the page used to say "Payload to LEO: 8,000kg; Max Payload to LEO: 15,000kg." Now it just says "Payload to LEO: 13,000kg." So would be rather misleading to switch from "Payload to LEO" meaning reusable (while "Max Payload to LEO" was reserved for expendable) to "Payload to LEO" meaning expendable.

Maybe an upgraded reusable payload mass reflects engine improvement, or ultra-cold densified propellants?

Offline XRZ.YZ

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #18 on: 05/03/2022 03:54 am »
It still listing 1500kg to Mars/Venus on the website. Same as the number release last December.

So, I prefer to think this is a more realistic performance as they go deeper into engineering.

And there is possibility the re-used performance is decreasing even more, so RL just hide that info now.



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Offline whitelancer64

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #19 on: 05/03/2022 04:41 am »
They mentioned on the launch webcast today that the launch pad and integration building/LCC for Neutron has now started construction at Wallops. Does anybody know where exactly at Wallops/MARS the pad will be at?

This article is from a year ago, but it's got the only site map (shown below) I could find with a quick google search. Unfortunately, it does not say exactly where the new launch pad will be.

https://www.easternshorepost.com/2021/07/22/zoning-approvals-clear-the-way-for-rocket-production-in-accomack/

And I used Google maps to look around Wallops, I believe I've located the site!
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Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #20 on: 06/12/2022 01:16 pm »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab360/status/1535970076901445633

Quote
A new presentation states that Neutron’s payload capacity is 8 tonnes for RTLS missions, and 13 tonnes for downrange landings.

It looks like Rocket Lab changed their mind about landing Neutron boosters on a (drone)ship!

Offline Steven Pietrobon

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #21 on: 06/13/2022 07:37 am »
I think subcooling, increased thrust and a stretch is next in the pipeline! :-)
Akin's Laws of Spacecraft Design #1:  Engineering is done with numbers.  Analysis without numbers is only an opinion.

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #22 on: 08/04/2022 06:47 am »
https://twitter.com/nasaspaceflight/status/1555054833870274561

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Rocket Lab says there will be a Neutron development update on September 21.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #23 on: 08/12/2022 07:07 am »
https://twitter.com/thesheetztweetz/status/1557827719110459393

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Rocket Lab $RKLB will host a Neutron rocket development update and investor day on Sept. 21 in NYC:

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #24 on: 09/07/2022 06:54 am »
Possible change in Neutron fairing size? Neutron page on Rocket Lab website still says 5m diameter.

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220906006034/en/Rocket-Lab-Signs-Agreement-with-USTRANSCOM-to-Explore-Using-Neutron-and-Electron-Rockets-to-Deliver-Cargo-Around-the-World

Quote
Rocket Lab Signs Agreement with USTRANSCOM to Explore Using Neutron and Electron Rockets to Deliver Cargo Around the World
The agreement supports the U.S. Air Force’s rocket cargo project which is exploring new transport concepts for sending supplies and equipment across Earth via space.

September 06, 2022 04:41 PM Eastern Daylight Time

[…]

About Neutron:

Neutron is Rocket Lab’s medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle in development. Designed to deliver reliable and cost-effective launch for payloads to low Earth orbit and beyond. With a large seven-meter fairing and a payload lift capacity of 13 tonnes in a downrange landing configuration, Neutron is ideal for both constellation deployment and large single spacecraft missions. Development and manufacturing of the Neutron rocket is based at Rocket Lab’s Production Complex in Wallops, Virginia within the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport. Neutron’s first launch pad will also be located at the spaceport near the Company’s existing pad for the Electron rocket.

[…]

Offline trimeta

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #25 on: 09/07/2022 02:36 pm »
Possible change in Neutron fairing size? Neutron page on Rocket Lab website still says 5m diameter.

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220906006034/en/Rocket-Lab-Signs-Agreement-with-USTRANSCOM-to-Explore-Using-Neutron-and-Electron-Rockets-to-Deliver-Cargo-Around-the-World

Quote
Rocket Lab Signs Agreement with USTRANSCOM to Explore Using Neutron and Electron Rockets to Deliver Cargo Around the World
The agreement supports the U.S. Air Force’s rocket cargo project which is exploring new transport concepts for sending supplies and equipment across Earth via space.

September 06, 2022 04:41 PM Eastern Daylight Time

[…]

About Neutron:

Neutron is Rocket Lab’s medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle in development. Designed to deliver reliable and cost-effective launch for payloads to low Earth orbit and beyond. With a large seven-meter fairing and a payload lift capacity of 13 tonnes in a downrange landing configuration, Neutron is ideal for both constellation deployment and large single spacecraft missions. Development and manufacturing of the Neutron rocket is based at Rocket Lab’s Production Complex in Wallops, Virginia within the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport. Neutron’s first launch pad will also be located at the spaceport near the Company’s existing pad for the Electron rocket.

[…]

And also note the rest of that sentence: "a payload lift capacity of 13 tonnes in a downrange landing configuration" (emphasize added). I suppose that answers the question about how the payload went from "8 tons RTLS, 15 tons expended" to "13 tons, reuse unspecified."
« Last Edit: 09/07/2022 02:38 pm by trimeta »

Offline trimeta

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #26 on: 09/08/2022 12:53 am »
Possible change in Neutron fairing size? Neutron page on Rocket Lab website still says 5m diameter.

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220906006034/en/Rocket-Lab-Signs-Agreement-with-USTRANSCOM-to-Explore-Using-Neutron-and-Electron-Rockets-to-Deliver-Cargo-Around-the-World

Quote
Rocket Lab Signs Agreement with USTRANSCOM to Explore Using Neutron and Electron Rockets to Deliver Cargo Around the World
The agreement supports the U.S. Air Force’s rocket cargo project which is exploring new transport concepts for sending supplies and equipment across Earth via space.

September 06, 2022 04:41 PM Eastern Daylight Time

[…]

About Neutron:

Neutron is Rocket Lab’s medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle in development. Designed to deliver reliable and cost-effective launch for payloads to low Earth orbit and beyond. With a large seven-meter fairing and a payload lift capacity of 13 tonnes in a downrange landing configuration, Neutron is ideal for both constellation deployment and large single spacecraft missions. Development and manufacturing of the Neutron rocket is based at Rocket Lab’s Production Complex in Wallops, Virginia within the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport. Neutron’s first launch pad will also be located at the spaceport near the Company’s existing pad for the Electron rocket.

[…]

Apparently "seven-meter fairing" was a typo after all, Rocket Lab's copy of the press release has been updated:

https://investors.rocketlabusa.com/news/news-details/2022/Rocket-Lab-Signs-Agreement-with-USTRANSCOM-to-Explore-Using-Neutron-and-Electron-Rockets-to-Deliver-Cargo-Around-the-World/default.aspx

Offline Steven Pietrobon

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #27 on: 09/08/2022 07:09 am »
Apparently "seven-meter fairing" was a typo after all, Rocket Lab's copy of the press release has been updated:

https://investors.rocketlabusa.com/news/news-details/2022/Rocket-Lab-Signs-Agreement-with-USTRANSCOM-to-Explore-Using-Neutron-and-Electron-Rockets-to-Deliver-Cargo-Around-the-World/default.aspx

Yes, it now says 5 m.

"With a large five-meter fairing and a payload lift capacity of 13 tonnes in a downrange landing configuration, Neutron is ideal for both constellation deployment and large single spacecraft missions."
Akin's Laws of Spacecraft Design #1:  Engineering is done with numbers.  Analysis without numbers is only an opinion.

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #28 on: 09/08/2022 01:59 pm »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1567673929204105216

Quote
Who's joining us for the Neutron Update and Investor Day on September 21 in NYC? We have a few seats remaining for in-person attendance, so get in quick.

🙋‍♀️ In-person registration: rocketlabusa.com/investordayrsvp

📺 Webcast registration: rocketlabusa.com/investorday

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #29 on: 09/20/2022 05:02 pm »
Reminder for tomorrow:
 https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1572265366839234561

Quote
Tomorrow's the day! ⏰

Join us for the live webcast of our investor day and Neutron development update: rocketlabusa.com/investorday/

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #30 on: 09/21/2022 12:07 pm »
https://investors.rocketlabusa.com/news/news-details/2022/Rocket-Lab-Selects-NASA-Stennis-Space-Center-for-Neutron-Engine-Test-Facility/default.aspx

Quote
Rocket Lab Selects NASA Stennis Space Center for Neutron Engine Test Facility
09/21/2022
Construction to Begin on Archimedes Test Complex in Mississippi in a Major Fast-Tracking of the Neutron Launch Vehicle to First Launch

LONG BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Rocket Lab USA, Inc (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab”, or “the Company”), a leading launch and space systems company, today revealed it has selected NASA’s historic Stennis Space Center in Mississippi as the location of its engine test facility for its reusable rocket, Neutron.

The Archimedes Test Complex will be located within the larger A Test Complex at Stennis Space Center across a 1 million square foot area for 10 years, with an option to extend the lease for an additional 10 years. The Archimedes Test Complex will include exclusive use and development of existing industrial NASA infrastructure and the Center’s A-3 Test Stand to develop and test Neutron’s Archimedes reusable engines. Rocket Lab has also secured a capital investment incentive from the Mississippi Development Authority to further develop the facilities and infrastructure at Stennis for Neutron. By expanding Stennis Space Center to include the Archimedes Test Complex, Rocket Lab is expected to create dozens of new jobs and make significant capital investments in the state of Mississippi.

Neutron is Rocket Lab’s reusable rocket in development, designed as a cost-effective, reliable, and responsive launch service to help build mega-constellations, deliver large spacecraft to low-Earth orbit, geostationary orbit, and interplanetary destinations, and to support a sustained human presence in space. Neutron will be powered by in-house designed and manufactured Archimedes reusable rocket engines and an advanced upper stage to enable high performance for complex satellite deployments.

Rocket Lab Founder and CEO, Peter Beck, says: “Before rockets flew to the Moon, they first had to go through Mississippi, and as we build a new rocket to reshape space access once again, Stennis is a fitting location for Neutron. Creating a test complex from scratch to the scale and complexity needed to test and develop Archimedes would have had an inconceivably long lead time, so the fact that we’ve secured Stennis and can leverage its existing infrastructure and test stand puts us on the fast-track to Neutron’s first launch. The icing on the cake is having fantastic partners like NASA and the state of Mississippi behind us to bring innovative rocketry, economic development, and new jobs to the Gulf Coast.”

Rocket Lab Vice President – Launch Systems, Shaun D’Mello, says: “The strong support, readiness and flexibility from NASA Stennis and Mississippi to bring engine test operations for Neutron to the state made Stennis the ideal location over other potential sites. Stennis Space Center’s legacy in rocket engine testing, established infrastructure, and skilled workforce will be both a boost to Neutron’s development and help grow Mississippi’s already robust aerospace test capabilities, securing a future for the state in innovative technology development.”

Rocket Lab expects to begin construction on the Archimedes Test Complex at Stennis Space Center quickly. At the same time, construction is continuing at pace on the Neutron Production Complex and launch site at Wallops Island, within the NASA Wallops Flight Facility and Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Combined, the two sites represent over two million square feet of operations for Neutron’s production, testing, and launch facilities. Further Neutron expansion will continue throughout the United States as the program develops toward first launch.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

The Governor of Mississippi, Tate Reeves: “When it comes to the aerospace industry, it’s all systems go in Mississippi. That’s because our state offers a prime location for innovative research, well-trained workers, and innovative technology development. Rocket Lab is a wonderful addition to the impressive range of global leaders who call NASA’s Stennis Space Center home and I’m excited to welcome them here.”

U.S. Senator Roger Wicker: “American leadership in outer space runs through Mississippi, and it is great to see more companies partnering with Stennis Space Center as a growing hub of our nation’s aerospace industry. I appreciate that Rocket Lab is using Stennis’s 'A-3' test stand, which Congress saved from demolition in 2010. Rocket Lab will bring quality jobs and technology to Mississippi for years to come.”

U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith: “The Stennis Space Center has a special place in American aerospace history, and Mississippi eagerly welcomes Rocket Lab to use this fantastic test facility to add to this legacy. Its work will continue Stennis’ key role in development and testing of the engines that will help usher in a new generation of achievements in aerospace and space exploration. I particularly appreciate that the Rocket Lab agreement involves partnership with NASA, the State of Mississippi, and our wonderful Gulf Coast.”

U.S. Congressman Steven Palazzo: “I applaud Rocket Lab on their decision to utilize the unique facilities at Stennis Space Center to further their space missions,” said Congressman Steven Palazzo. “South Mississippi has long been a staple in the pathway to space for both the public and private sectors. Not only the infrastructure, but the people too, create a receptive environment for business partnerships. I look forward to Rocket Lab’s future at Stennis and in space innovation and exploration.”

Offline sanman

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #31 on: 09/21/2022 05:41 pm »
Their latest presentation is now up on their website, under the Investors section:

https://investors.rocketlabusa.com/

Neutron section is Slide 59 onwards.

On slide 68, they mention a possible capsule:


Offline sanman

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #32 on: 09/21/2022 05:57 pm »
More concept art of the notional Neutron capsule docking with ISS (slide 69 of presentation):




Wait - if that lower section below the grey band is a service module, then why is the RCS above the grey band? Shouldn't the RCS be part of the service module?

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #33 on: 09/21/2022 05:57 pm »
Attached are just the Neutron pages from the investor presentation

Edit to add: apologies I missed some pages, now updated
« Last Edit: 09/21/2022 06:17 pm by FutureSpaceTourist »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #34 on: 09/21/2022 06:03 pm »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1572645381644685321

Quote
Our sincere apologies folks - we've run into technical difficulties with the webcast and will not be going live for Investor Day. We'll run a live Twitter thread and share a recording of today's event on our website later in the day.

Twitter thread starts here:

https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1572645768300822528

Quote
Happening now - updates from Rocket Lab's Investor Day in New York City. Thread below with news from the day:

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #35 on: 09/21/2022 06:10 pm »
https://twitter.com/tlpn_official/status/1572647587219636224

Quote
RocketLab's Future Launch Complex

#RocketLab #Neutron
#TLPNews #TLPNetwork

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #36 on: 09/21/2022 07:21 pm »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1572663461686943744

Quote
"The toughest bit is getting through the design phase, into the moulds, and producing hardware. But we've made it, we're there now - real hardware coming off real machines" - Peter Beck.

Offline DeimosDream

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #37 on: 09/21/2022 08:11 pm »
I found this gem: Archimedes has been upgraded from a Gas Generator cycle to an Oxygen Rich Closed Cycle design, with 367s ISP-Vacuum on 2nd stage.

https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1572665841136566273?s=20&t=mi8zS3ihITRdJIxGGKTeSA

Quote
One for the rocket engine fans among us.

See also page 72-73 in the investor presentation power point.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #38 on: 09/22/2022 11:56 am »
Recorded presentation video is now available:

Offline Rondaz

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #39 on: 09/22/2022 02:49 pm »

Offline Rondaz

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #40 on: 09/22/2022 02:50 pm »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #41 on: 09/22/2022 03:51 pm »
Twins? ::)

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #42 on: 09/22/2022 10:04 pm »
twitter.com/spaceoffshore/status/1573069089911840769

Quote
From the Rocket Lab webcast:

The structure seen in the water by the pad is presented as "Picking up a booster from an ocean platform that returns from a downrange landing"

https://twitter.com/alexphysics13/status/1573069339384856576

Quote
And the gantry building can roll over to the platform and grab the Neutron and roll it back for integration, really cool

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #43 on: 10/16/2022 07:29 pm »
https://twitter.com/nasaspaceflight/status/1581728514054553600

Quote
Looking forward to Rocket Lab Neutron.

Overview: nasaspaceflight.com/?s=neutron

Live comments from Peter Beck:
youtube.com/watch?v=Zb7_dD…
« Last Edit: 10/16/2022 07:36 pm by FutureSpaceTourist »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #44 on: 11/04/2022 05:49 pm »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1588603927448399875

Quote
While we were launching Electron from LC-1, the Neutron team officially kicked off operations at @NASAStennis today in preparation for Archimedes engine testing. Busy day!

twitter.com/tatereeves/status/1588602322686717952

Quote
Mississippi’s economy is cleared for launch! 🚀

Today we welcomed @RocketLab to the Stennis Space Center where they’ll build and test their next-generation engines and help to lead our nation’s space exploration efforts.

Another great win for our state!

https://twitter.com/peter_j_beck/status/1588604841458544641

Quote
Excited to make Mississippi the home of the Archimedes engine. Looking forward to making fire.
« Last Edit: 11/04/2022 05:52 pm by FutureSpaceTourist »

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #45 on: 11/09/2022 09:56 pm »
Slides from Q3 2022 results presentation

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #46 on: 11/09/2022 10:04 pm »
https://twitter.com/jeff_foust/status/1590461958498795531

Quote
Rocket Lab’s Peter Beck, in an ongoing earnings call, mentioned progress on the Neutron factory under construction outside the gates of Wallops. Here’s how it looked over the weekend.

Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #47 on: 11/10/2022 09:33 am »
https://twitter.com/jeff_foust/status/1590461958498795531

Quote
Rocket Lab’s Peter Beck, in an ongoing earnings call, mentioned progress on the Neutron factory under construction outside the gates of Wallops. Here’s how it looked over the weekend.
Thats one massive chicken coop.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #48 on: 11/10/2022 12:35 pm »
Beck also mentioned on the call that Archimedes component testing at Stennis was just about to start.
https://twitter.com/jeff_foust/status/1590461958498795531

Quote
Rocket Lab’s Peter Beck, in an ongoing earnings call, mentioned progress on the Neutron factory under construction outside the gates of Wallops. Here’s how it looked over the weekend.
Thats one massive chicken coop.
It's to house a particularly large bird.

Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #49 on: 11/10/2022 01:37 pm »
Hopefully all the chickens will come home to roost.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #50 on: 11/10/2022 08:04 pm »
Photo from Q3 slides

https://twitter.com/peter_j_beck/status/1590811859665686528

Quote
They grow up so fast.

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #51 on: 12/22/2022 07:22 am »
https://twitter.com/peter_j_beck/status/1605781729163108352

Quote
Neutron tank dome beside an Electron tank dome with a Buzz Lightyear for scale…..

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #52 on: 01/16/2023 07:11 pm »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1615079151618371586

Quote
The first building for the Neutron production complex at @NASA_Wallops is complete. Inside this facility Neutron's 7-meter-wide reusable first stage will take shape as we work toward first launch.

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #53 on: 01/18/2023 06:39 am »
https://twitter.com/peter_j_beck/status/1615511198879059968

Quote
Neutron 1st stage tank halves in progress.
Love it when a plan comes together.

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #54 on: 02/28/2023 08:53 pm »
Latest on Neutron from 2022 Q4 investor update

Q4 Investor update attached

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #55 on: 03/01/2023 01:50 am »
Total R&D expenditure for
Q4 $15M
Q3 $17M

FY2022
$65M


Consider they have lots of different project now.
Doesn't feel like they are actively developing a large Rocket.
XQCR LLYZ GYZH HZSZ

Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #56 on: 03/01/2023 03:40 am »
That 380kg tank in picture is for the upper stage. Using guy as reference around 4m tall but looks bit fatter so maybe 4.5-5m.
My guess is it will become lighter as they build more and refine design.
« Last Edit: 03/02/2023 03:02 pm by zubenelgenubi »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #57 on: 03/24/2023 07:01 pm »
https://twitter.com/thesheetztweetz/status/1639356239711965184

Quote
Rocket Lab $RKLB is targeting a $50m-$55m per launch cost for Neutron “to compete directly” with SpaceX’s Falcon 9, CFO Adam Spice said earlier this week:

https://www.cnbc.com/2023/03/24/rocket-lab-neutron-launch-price-challenges-spacex.html

Quote
KEY POINTS

Rocket Lab is targeting a $50 million launch price for its coming reusable launch vehicle called Neutron, to challenge Elon Musk’s SpaceX.

“We are positioning Neutron to compete directly with the Falcon 9,” Rocket Lab Chief Financial Officer Adam Spice said.

In the meantime, Spice said Rocket Lab looks to maintain its position as “a dominant player” in the market sub-sector of launching small satellites with its Electron vehicles.

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #58 on: 05/09/2023 08:41 pm »
Attached slides from Q1 2023 financial results pack
« Last Edit: 05/09/2023 08:42 pm by FutureSpaceTourist »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #59 on: 05/17/2023 10:21 am »
Original images extracted from the PDF, some are larger than the visible crops (e.g. the Neutron render).

::EDIT:: I think the frame (handling boilerplate?) next to the Virginian Rocket Cows may be sitting on the octagonal concrete pad south-west of Pad 0-B
« Last Edit: 05/17/2023 10:27 am by edzieba »

Offline cplchanb

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #60 on: 05/19/2023 05:27 pm »
great to see another competitor come in to the human space flight market (eventually).
in fact theyre potentially tapping into an untapped market in using smaller spacecraft to launch humans instead of F9.
From the looks of it is between the size of the titans used for gemini and the current soyuz in terms of size and mass.

looking forward to seeing it fly in the next few years! ;D

Offline Robotbeat

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #61 on: 05/19/2023 07:21 pm »
Neutron is more capable than Falcon 9 was when SpaceX was at a similar point in developing Dragon. Arguably, Neutron will probably grow to even greater capability than Falcon 9 is today. If it succeeds.
Chris  Whoever loves correction loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.

To the maximum extent practicable, the Federal Government shall plan missions to accommodate the space transportation services capabilities of United States commercial providers. US law http://goo.gl/YZYNt0

Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #62 on: 05/19/2023 09:37 pm »
Neutron is more capable than Falcon 9 was when SpaceX was at a similar point in developing Dragon. Arguably, Neutron will probably grow to even greater capability than Falcon 9 is today. If it succeeds.

Neutron is designed as RLV with lot effort to make turnaround simple and low cost. F9 on the other hand is ELV that has been modified to operate as RLV. While compromise is doing very good job at being a RLV.

Offline Robotbeat

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #63 on: 05/19/2023 09:39 pm »
Neutron is more capable than Falcon 9 was when SpaceX was at a similar point in developing Dragon. Arguably, Neutron will probably grow to even greater capability than Falcon 9 is today. If it succeeds.

Neutron is designed as RLV with lot effort to make turnaround simple and low cost. F9 on the other hand is ELV that has been modified to operate as RLV. While compromise is doing very good job at being a RLV.
That’s just ahistorical and wrong. Falcon 9 was always designed to be reused, first with parachutes and later totally redesigned for powered landing on v1.1.

I don’t know why people keep repeating this as if it were fact. Even people who were around when this was happening.

The first flights of both Falcon 9 v1.0 and v1.1 attempted recovery (and both failed).

EDIT: and here you can see the 13 ton payload of Falcon 9 v1.1: https://web.archive.org/web/20140805175724/http://www.spacex.com/falcon9
« Last Edit: 05/19/2023 09:44 pm by Robotbeat »
Chris  Whoever loves correction loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.

To the maximum extent practicable, the Federal Government shall plan missions to accommodate the space transportation services capabilities of United States commercial providers. US law http://goo.gl/YZYNt0

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #64 on: 05/19/2023 09:51 pm »
Anyway, I expect Neutron to grow dramatically. At 7 meters in diameter, it could potentially get Falcon Heavy or New Glenn level performance to LEO eventually.

Keeping the fairing attached to the first stage (combined with droneship recovery) is a pretty good future-proof way to gain an efficiency edge over Starship and Terran-R, and probably would make a reusable upper stage much easier (as it won’t need to bring back the heavy fairing from orbital velocities). …IF they choose to do full reuse in the future.
« Last Edit: 05/19/2023 09:52 pm by Robotbeat »
Chris  Whoever loves correction loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.

To the maximum extent practicable, the Federal Government shall plan missions to accommodate the space transportation services capabilities of United States commercial providers. US law http://goo.gl/YZYNt0

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #65 on: 05/19/2023 11:17 pm »


…IF they choose to do full reuse in the future.

I really hope they do. I agree, keeping the fairings on the first stage probably allows for some more creativity in designing a reusable 2nd stage. 

Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #66 on: 05/20/2023 02:00 am »


…IF they choose to do full reuse in the future.

I really hope they do. I agree, keeping the fairings on the first stage probably allows for some more creativity in designing a reusable 2nd stage.
My pick is using HIAD which shouldn't add much mass and allows them to use existing US design. They also have experience in MAR even if it has been canned for Electron. Should be better for US where recovery location can be lot closer if not overland. Using curie engines and fuel for maneuvers allows for longer duration to pick right orbit for reentry.
« Last Edit: 05/22/2023 04:12 pm by zubenelgenubi »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #67 on: 05/24/2023 04:53 am »
https://twitter.com/peter_j_beck/status/1661156741793579009

Quote
Virgin Orbit built a fantastic production facility with the very best equipment. We're fortunate to have nearly completed the acquisition of this facility and equipment to help advance Neutron’s future production and reduce the overall cost of the program significantly.

Full press release:

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230523006112/en/Rocket-Lab-Bolsters-Neutron-Rocket-Program-with-Purchase-of-Virgin-Orbit-Long-Beach-California-Assets

Quote
Rocket Lab Bolsters Neutron Rocket Program with Purchase of Virgin Orbit Long Beach California Assets
The purchase of a portion of Virgin Orbit’s assets includes the lease to one of its Long Beach facilities and critical manufacturing infrastructure to accelerate the production of Rocket Lab’s Neutron rocket, securing material savings on planned capital expenditures.

May 23, 2023 06:39 PM Eastern Daylight Time
LONG BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab” or “the Company”), a leading launch and space systems company, today announced it has been selected as a successful bidder and is finalizing an asset purchase agreement for the purchase of certain Long Beach California aerospace production and manufacturing assets from Virgin Orbit Holdings, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries (“Virgin Orbit”) in Virgin Orbit’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy auction.

Rocket Lab’s successful bid of approximately $16.1 million includes the assumption of the lease to Virgin Orbit’s 144,000+ square foot headquarters and manufacturing complex at 4022 E. Conant St. in Long Beach, California (the “Conant Facility”), and certain production assets, machinery, and equipment located there. The successful bid does not include the purchase of Virgin Orbit’s Boeing 747 aircraft, launch vehicles or mobile launch assets for its rockets, or other Virgin Orbit facilities, inventory and assets. The purchase remains subject to finalizing the purchase agreement and approval of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware administering Virgin Orbit’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases and other customary closing conditions.

The combination of these assets with Rocket Lab’s existing production, manufacturing, and test capabilities is expected to advance the production of Rocket Lab’s larger launch vehicle, Neutron. Rocket Lab will not be integrating Virgin Orbit’s launch system within its existing launch services.

Rocket Lab CEO and Founder, Peter Beck, says: “Rocket Lab is a global industry leader in launch, and our new, larger rocket Neutron will bring added reliability, reusability, and innovation to the launch sector. With Neutron’s design and development well-advanced, this transaction represents a capital expenditure savings opportunity to augment our production capability to bring Neutron to the launch pad quickly to serve our customers and their future success. Securing the lease to the Conant Facility adds to our existing presence in Long Beach and provides co-located engineering, manufacturing, and test capabilities for our Neutron team.”

Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #68 on: 05/24/2023 07:28 am »
Quick overview of what equipment they probably got with building. Plus its 12min walk from their factory.


Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #69 on: 06/01/2023 10:38 am »
Some cost estimates of Neutron from Adam Spice in this video. Listen at 22:00 mark.



Launch price $50-55m. Cost price $25m with expendable US $10-15M.
« Last Edit: 06/01/2023 04:25 pm by zubenelgenubi »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #70 on: 06/07/2023 01:47 am »
https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1666250770298322944

Quote
It’s full methane-and-LOX steam ahead for Neutron’s engines in California. Full scale Archimedes components incl. injectors & combustion chambers are being 3D printed from our giant machines in RLHQ, putting our extensive additive manufacturing experience to use on new engines.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #71 on: 06/08/2023 05:54 am »
Reminder that this is an updates ONLY thread.

Discussion thread is: https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=53194.0

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #72 on: 06/08/2023 10:06 pm »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1666929482895351809

Quote
Neutron's second stage test stand taking shape ahead of cryogenic structural stage testing 🚀

Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #73 on: 06/08/2023 10:22 pm »
Looks like a NZ location.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #75 on: 06/19/2023 11:58 pm »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1670908588473155585

Quote
Supporting Neutron to first launch are our facilities like this Neutron test stand, ready to receive a full-scale second stage tank for structural & cryogenic testing in the coming weeks.

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artist, so take opinions expressed above with a well-rendered grain of salt...
https://www.instagram.com/artzf/

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #77 on: 08/10/2023 06:32 am »
Great photo

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #78 on: 08/12/2023 04:41 am »
Somebody snuck in a Buzz Lightyear!
Akin's Laws of Spacecraft Design #1:  Engineering is done with numbers.  Analysis without numbers is only an opinion.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #79 on: 08/18/2023 06:25 pm »
https://arstechnica.com/space/2023/08/rocket-lab-pivoting-to-downrange-neutron-landings-to-meet-customer-demand/

Quote
Rocket Lab pivoting to downrange Neutron landings to meet customer demand
"We don’t believe in signing janky, fake contracts."

by Eric Berger - Aug 18, 2023 6:19pm GMT

Rocket Lab is having a pretty good year with a rising stock price and reaching a monthly launch cadence with its Electron vehicle for the first time. But as ever in the space business, the focus is not so much on what a company has done but what it will do.

From the article:

Quote from: Peter Beck
”I just see zero point in signing non-real agreements at hugely discounted prices before the product exists.”
« Last Edit: 08/18/2023 06:28 pm by FutureSpaceTourist »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #80 on: 09/13/2023 09:28 am »
https://twitter.com/thesheetztweetz/status/1701871133132234924

Quote
Rocket Lab $RKLB gives an update on Neutron development, saying it's begun testing a Stage 2 tank to demonstrate and verify structural integrity:

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #81 on: 09/13/2023 08:55 pm »
Higher res versions from:

https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1702061579259502667

Quote
Neutron stage 2 tank testing is underway! We're taking this tank through cryogenic fill and pressure cycles to determine structural and sealing integrity and performance 🚀 ❄️
« Last Edit: 09/13/2023 08:56 pm by FutureSpaceTourist »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #82 on: 09/14/2023 04:47 am »
https://twitter.com/peter_j_beck/status/1702105405617516833

Quote
Good to be in qual test. A Frosty tank is an important milestone.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #83 on: 09/18/2023 05:29 am »
Neutron graphics from Rocket Lab flickr

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #84 on: 10/01/2023 06:55 pm »
rocket lab has made a update to their neutron page on their site, https://www.rocketlabusa.com/launch/neutron/, lota new additions to it, biggest one is an actual timeline for neutron dev to keep track of
« Last Edit: 10/01/2023 06:55 pm by the_big_boot »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #85 on: 10/01/2023 07:42 pm »
I'm really surprised that the Archimedes test fire is still in 2023.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #86 on: 10/01/2023 10:48 pm »
rocket lab has made a update to their neutron page on their site, https://www.rocketlabusa.com/launch/neutron/, lota new additions to it, biggest one is an actual timeline for neutron dev to keep track of.

Clicking on that link brings up a more extensive version.
Here is a composite of the full width.

« Last Edit: 10/01/2023 10:50 pm by Comga »
What kind of wastrels would dump a perfectly good booster in the ocean after just one use?

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #87 on: 10/02/2023 12:31 pm »
rocket lab has made a update to their neutron page on their site, https://www.rocketlabusa.com/launch/neutron/, lota new additions to it, biggest one is an actual timeline for neutron dev to keep track of

Is it just my phone or does the timeline not contain any actual time? This is a development path, not a timeline.
« Last Edit: 10/02/2023 12:32 pm by M.E.T. »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #88 on: 10/02/2023 12:36 pm »
it contains two years, 2023 and 2024, inserted vertically in a hard-to-read font.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #89 on: 10/03/2023 02:47 am »
Rocket Lab photos of cryogenic testing (from flickr)

Edit to add:

https://twitter.com/therocketfuture/status/1709032374082634223

Quote
🚀 Cryogenic pressure testing is underway for Neutron's 2nd stage 🚀

This involves filling the 5m diameter tank with liquid nitrogen & pressurizing it well beyond expected flight pressures to verify structural & sealing integrity. Passing with flying colors so far! Fun fact: This single Neutron Stage 2 tank holds the same amount of propellant as 7 whole Electrons.
« Last Edit: 10/03/2023 03:04 am by FutureSpaceTourist »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #90 on: 10/04/2023 09:35 pm »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1709683367778853365

Quote
A big week for Neutron! 🚀

We completed cryogenic testing for a Neutron 2nd stage. This crucial test involved filling the tank with liquid nitrogen & pressurizing it to expected flight pressures, then pushing it all the way to failure to test extreme tolerances.

Who wants to see what it looks like when you push a frosty rocket tank past its limits? ❄️👀

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #91 on: 10/04/2023 10:00 pm »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1709689298856133014

Quote
As part of structural testing we push our tanks to Maximum Expected Operating Pressure (MEOP)...and far beyond. It's always fun to round out an intensive test campaign with a bang!

Armed with a wealth of data from this campaign, the next Neutron stage 2 tank is progressing at pace!

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #92 on: 10/17/2023 01:58 pm »
« Last Edit: 10/17/2023 02:00 pm by edkyle99 »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #93 on: 11/09/2023 08:03 pm »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #94 on: 11/09/2023 08:08 pm »
Some screen grabs from the video
« Last Edit: 11/09/2023 08:09 pm by FutureSpaceTourist »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #95 on: 11/09/2023 09:38 pm »
I think this needs context from the video discription:

Quote from:  Rocket Lab
....then pushing it all the way to failure to test extreme tolerances.
Launches attended: Worldview-4 (Atlas V 401), Iridium NEXT Flight 1 (Falcon 9 FT), PAZ+Starlink (Falcon 9 FT), Arabsat-6A (Falcon Heavy)
Pilgrimaged to: Boca Chica (09/19 & 01/22)

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #96 on: 11/09/2023 11:05 pm »
Looks like a NZ location.
Spotted at the NZ test site by Harry Stranger.
May be a part of "Kopako Industrial Reserve", part of a region named "Kopuku" in Waikato District, about 55 km south of Auckland.  I think they also do Electron testing at this site.  They must be building these tanks at their facility in Auckland.

 - Ed Kyle
« Last Edit: 11/09/2023 11:15 pm by edkyle99 »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #97 on: 11/10/2023 03:20 am »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1722778366598910105

Quote
Neutron is taking shape thanks to a dedicated team of pioneers designing, building, and testing our next generation rocket. You could be one of them.

Join the team: https://www.rocketlabusa.com/careers/positions/

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #98 on: 11/13/2023 09:28 am »
On this week's NSF live Beck said the upper stage tank weighs 300 & something kg.  'About the same as a Harley Davison'.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #99 on: 11/14/2023 09:20 pm »
https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1724530751952306201

Quote
Neutron’s last stop before space: Launch Complex 3.

Construction of LC-3 at @NASAWallops and @Virginia_Space is underway. Spot Electron’s LC-2 next door for comparison.

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #100 on: 11/15/2023 04:57 pm »
Edited transcript of the NSF Interview with Peter Beck of Rocket Lab, because there's lots of fascinating incidental details:
Quote
RE: the second stage failure in the last launch
Caused by the very specific circumstances of that flight. The low-pressure mix of helium and nitrogen, the 500V DC, the pressure at that specific height, the AC 'ripple' of the DC synchronous motor when it starts up, all increased the ability of an arc to extend through a pinhole for a few centimetres to a metre or more. They had to stick a second stage in the vacuum chamber to find this out, as it's buried deep in the literature. They show a graph titled "1.6 seconds of anomaly data" where they recorded the fault and the loss of power 1.6 seconds later. Their solution was simple: pressurise the battery pack underneath a flexible 'boot'.

2024 manifest
22 Electron launches planned for 2024, 9 of them slated for 12st stage recovery. 2 slated for HASTE.

Production
Production a pain but they're scaling; 3 cleanrooms; just have to hold the rate.
1 Electron rocket every 15-17 days.

Why electric motor on 2nd stage?
Propellant residuals on small stage can be 30kg
You risk cavitation on other methods of powering the engine
1st stage can be completely sucked dry, and so can 2nd stage
Constantly monitoring mixture ratio
Electron's a relatively tiny vehicle for the payload it can lift

Little launch vehicles more sensitive to added mass - 100 grammes on Electron is significant

Cadence
Wallops a "key site"

Certified for automated FTS at Wallops

Rapid-response
Good capability to have, but it's just how they roll anyway.

Launch sites are "money hoovers"; they'll build a site if they feel there's a market opportunity

Ocean recovery of Electron 1st stage
Discovered not that much they need to do to make them waterproof and marinised.
Cost of refurbishment vs. cost of helicopter pretty well neutral.
Able to bring it down on last recovery within 400m of predicted landing, which is pretty good for a passive recovery.
They don't do a braking burn.
Now focusing on recovering in different weather conditions without damaging it.
It's not just about recovering and reusing, but doing so economically. Next step recovering and reflying all 9 first stage engines, then whole vehicle.
Reuse on Electron a 'nice to have' not a must-have, as they're focusing on production.

First stage to splashdown was there for an hour; they found barnacles on the engine. Once you gift it to the sea, the ocean "instantly starts consuming it". Marine assets still suck because they dissolve in front of your eyes, but they're a necessary evil.

RE: Electron recovery on the manifest
Performance is always maximised over recovery.

Launch manifest a giant game of whack-a-mole; always changing, so recovery may end up added or taken away to missions.

Tank reuse relatively low-risk, but it's a small part of the rocket compared to the engines.

Have been reusing pressurisation and vent-relief systems.

Priority is getting customers to orbit on time.

Venus probe
A "nights and weekends project" for them and the other teams working on it.
NASA provided heatshield for reentry probe.
Biggest question: "Are we the only life in the universe?"
Descent probe passing through the semi-habitable zone 50km up will essentially have a "go/no-go gauge for life".
It will have 120 seconds before it is crushed and melted.
If yes, chances are life is all around the universe, if no it means we have to be a bit more careful with ourselves. Either way, a super-important and exciting thing to do.
They've reached the point on Photon and Electron they can do this for a tiny amount of money.
Wary of scope creep, but with Photon they can go anywhere in the near Earth regime, notably the Escapade missions for NASA.

Is something about small satellites harder, given the amount of launch services struggling? What makes RL different?
Incredible efficiency and automation; for e.g. flight-safety team, they can't afford to hire 30 people on a $7.5 million sticker-price, they have to do it with 3.
With regard to small launch vehicles: not everything scales. E.g. a pressure transducer only goes so small. If you can pull that off, engineering a large launch vehicle is a piece of cake.
Large vehicles take capital. A launch site for small launch doesn't take that much concrete or steel. The trouble with Neutron and all large launch vehicles is the quanta of capital and the quanta of infrastructure required. It's why nearly all rocket companies start off with a small launcher to gain credibility and thus attract the capital for a large launcher.

Neutron
Tank test bigger milestone than people realise.
Second stage has to be the lightest, highest-performing and also cost the least, because it's disposable. Economics, materials science, manufacturing all have to pass the test.
Second-stage tank is 5 metres across and weighs the same as a Harley-Davidson - 300-something kilograms. Made comparison to Centaur [Note: dry mass of Centaur 2247 kg].
In comparison, the first stage tank has much more margin - thicker walls, made to be reused.
In the honeymoon period where they are figuring out the margins and what works, what doesn't.
It's a hung stage, but the payload load path is spread out over the launch cone to intersect with the sides - "super clean". Designed that first.
Holding the fairings is a parasitic load, so you have to find other ways to save mass. Talks about the spiral of doom. You know you've done your job right when every engineer is unhappy with the compromises.

Image listing achievements this year: 2nd stage tank testing, critical engine components manufactured, combustion device testing, stage lock and pusher, actuator motor controller, power management module, engine/stage controller functional testing, avionics I/O controller testing, TPS testing, canard test rig built.
Still to do: fairing and upper module testing, Archimedes engine build and first hardware-in-the-loop flight to orbit
Next year is a big year.

Archimedes
Archimedes development going well, but it remains the long pole in the tent.
Chose oxidiser-rich staged combustion because if you dial it back a bit from squeezing out every last bit of performance, you end up in really benign operation at the same level of performance as a gas-generator cycle, but "kind of bulletproof". Compared it to an airplane engine.
Ox-rich combustor couldn't be dialed back too much or it would extinguish; had to solve that in the process of building the most boring, unboring engine.

How many launches per year do you hope to get out of Neutron?
Can't put a number on it, because you'll turn out to be wrong. Generally following the Electron beginning cadence.
Customers they're talking to looking to use it as a mega-constellation deployer.
Designed for high flight rate.

Would you ever use drone ships for more intensive launches?
Kind of resigned to it. Return to launch site is 8 tons, while downrange is 13 tons. You just trade out too much payload.

Any hop tests?
No, just try to bring it home, they learned from Electron's recovery.

Fairing design now just two halves. Render not updated because they've been working on the rocket.

No chance right now of reusable second stage, because payload suffers so horrendously if you have the reusable fairing on that. Also have to direct that to where you care. 70% of the cost of the vehicle is in the first stage.

Cleared land to build LC3 for Neutron at Wallops. It's a big pad. Can't launch from NZ, there isn't the industrial base. All the LOX produced in NZ would fill half a Neutron - once. USA can supply multiple tanker-trucks. Wallops gives a good SSO dog-leg corridor, better than the Cape. Also supportive thanks to existing relationships built with Electron.

Designing it to be human-rate*able*, not human-rated out of the gate. No market as of now, as the one customer for it is well-served. Needs more space stations, more destinations before they would try. Would jump on it if it made sense.

First launch and favourite launch?
First launch he saw was the last Space Shuttle night launch. Favourite launch is every successful one. Most memorable was the NASA launch "This One's For Pickering" [NZ founder of JPL], as they had Pickering's family in the launch and growing up he always wanted to work for NASA.

NASA meatball or worm?
No allegiance to NASA 'meatball' or 'worm'. Capstone mission had the 'worm' - "craziest flight ever" - and there was a three hour debate over whether they could afford the mass of the sticker on the side of the vehicle or not. The worm was probably slightly lighter.

Two/thirds of their business is building spacecraft. Escapade, Varda, MDA Global Star... whole goal of Rocket Lab is to be an end-to-end space company. Launch gives you the keys to space but is just one element. If you can put infrastructure into space, it's incredibly hard to compete. Methodically stepping their way through to that ultimate endpoint.

How do you ensure Rocket Lab survives the next two years?
Small launch suffered from a lot of aspiration and not a lot of execution. RL not immune to that. Rigid on "did you do what you said you would do?" Prefer to execute and then tell rather than pump up. Trying to build a multigenerational, enduring space company; everyone's got a use-by date, so it can't be the Peter Beck show. Going public means you have to be profitable, to deliver - called it a forcing function. Without investment in Neutron, RL's profitable, but they're investing in the future.

The fact that the margins on Electron can become that tight that a sticker is significant... the mind boggles.

Offline deltaV

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #101 on: 02/14/2024 08:01 pm »
From the Rocket Lab general thread:

A long twitter chain
https://twitter.com/SpaceEquities/status/1757826075143319958

That twitter chain includes a number of tweets about Neutron, including a tweet which implies Neutron is no longer planned to launch in 2024:

Quote
The goal is to have an integrated Neutron on the pad by the end of this year.

Offline c4fusion

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #102 on: 02/15/2024 08:49 am »
From the Rocket Lab general thread:

A long twitter chain
https://twitter.com/SpaceEquities/status/1757826075143319958

That twitter chain includes a number of tweets about Neutron, including a tweet which implies Neutron is no longer planned to launch in 2024:

Quote
The goal is to have an integrated Neutron on the pad by the end of this year.

Call me a bit skeptical especially since we haven’t heard of a full engine firing.  I am not sure even if we had a subscale test.  That being said - I wish them luck.

Offline TrevorMonty

Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #103 on: 02/15/2024 09:05 am »
From the Rocket Lab general thread:

A long twitter chain
https://twitter.com/SpaceEquities/status/1757826075143319958

That twitter chain includes a number of tweets about Neutron, including a tweet which implies Neutron is no longer planned to launch in 2024:

Quote
The goal is to have an integrated Neutron on the pad by the end of this year.

Call me a bit skeptical especially since we haven’t heard of a full engine firing.  I am not sure even if we had a subscale test.  That being said - I wish them luck.
Read twitter thread. Had successful preburner  test firing.Full up engine test in Q2.

As for not launching in 2024 that was a given, every LV development schedule slips to the right. What was surprising is it has taken this long for RL to announce it. Lot of similar programs would've added year or more slippage by now, not a few months.
« Last Edit: 02/15/2024 09:10 am by TrevorMonty »

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #104 on: 02/27/2024 08:38 pm »
From 2023 full year financials presentation (attached)

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Re: Rocket Lab Neutron - Updates
« Reply #105 on: 03/18/2024 10:56 pm »


Quote
Concrete is flowing fast on the launch mount, a dedicated new pad for Neutron designed to enable rapid turnaround between missions.


https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1769841701693358489

Quote
Just a 5-minute drive from the pad, the Neutron Integration Facility is under construction. It’s from this facility that completed Neutron rockets will roll out to the pad before taking to the skies.
« Last Edit: 03/18/2024 10:57 pm by catdlr »
Tony De La Rosa, ...I'm no Feline Dealer!! I move mountains.  but I'm better known for "I think it's highly sexual." Japanese to English Translation.

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