
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.
Rocket Lab launched a satellite for a mystery customer on Thursday morning (Nov. 20).
The liftoff, which occurred at 7:43 a.m. EST (1243 GMT) from Rocket Lab's New Zealand site, came as something of a surprise. The company formally announced the impending launch of its workhorse Electron rocket less than five hours ahead of time.
The mission, called "Follow My Speed" was a complete success, Rocket Lab announced via X on Thursday morning.
"Today's 'Follow My Speed' mission marks 18 launches with 100% mission success for 2025 — more than any other year in Electron's history — making our rocket the most frequently flown orbital small launch vehicle in the world," the company said in another Thursday X post.
Fifteen of those 18 launches have been orbital missions. The other three were suborbital flights involving HASTE, a modified version of the 59-foot-tall (18-meter-tall) Electron that allows customers to test hypersonic technologies in the space environment.
We don't know much about "Follow My Speed."
Rocket Lab described the mission in vague terms only, saying that its goal was "to deploy a single satellite for a confidential commercial customer."
Keeping things so close to the vest isn't exactly odd for launch companies, who regularly loft national-security payloads or commercial satellites with sensitive, proprietary tech. Rocket Lab, for example, launched five satellites for a confidential customer just three months ago.
LATEST POSTS
- 1
Is new Harry Styles music on the way? Fans think so, after a cryptic website and posters pop up.12.01.2026 - 2
The most effective method to Remain Ahead in the Most recent Advanced Patterns with a Web based Advertising Degree19.10.2023 - 3
Vote in favor of Your #1 Home Exercise Gear: Execution and Comfort Matter05.06.2024 - 4
The most effective method to Apply Antiquated Ways of thinking in Current Brain science Practices17.10.2023 - 5
Was it a stone tool or just a rock? An archaeologist explains how scientists can tell the difference31.12.2025
Dominating Capable Mastercard Utilization: Key Contemplations
Track down the Ideal Weight reduction Methodology for Your Way of life
Have gravitational waves provided the first hint of primordial black holes born during the Big Bang?
'Heated Rivalry's Ilya Rozanov is now a queer icon in Russia
Monetary Versatility: Get ready for Life's Unforeseen Difficulties
Catch the moon dancing with bright star Regulus tonight
The most effective method to Amplify Profits from Gold Speculation: Systems and Tips
Tributes pour in for MIT professor Nuno Loureiro amid unresolved shooting case
She was the ultimate '90s fitness influencer. Now she's delivering Uber Eats — and rebuilding her life.












