Rocket Lab's future Neutron launch vehicle. Credit: Rocket Lab
TAMPA, Fla. — Kepler Communications plans to deploy next-generation optical relay satellites on Rocket Lab’s upcoming Neutron rocket in one of several launches the Canadian operator has slated for 2028.
The operator announced Aug. 10 it had booked its first dedicated launch mission for an undisclosed number of satellites as it prepares to ramp up optical connectivity, on-orbit compute and hosted payload capacity. Previous Kepler satellites have shared rides on rockets such as SpaceX’s Falcon 9.
“Securing our first dedicated launch reflects the next stage of growth,” Kepler chief revenue officer Beau Jarvis said in a statement.
“As we continue expanding our constellation to keep pace with growing customer demand, multiple launches in 2028 will increase capacity, strengthen resilience, and enable new services for customers around the world.”
