Rocket Lab successfully launched a technology demonstration satellite for the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on Saturday.
The mission marked the 77th flight of the Electron rocket, deploying JAXA’s Rapid Innovation Payload Demonstration Satellite 4, or RAISE 4, into a low-Earth orbit approximately 325 miles above the Earth, about 55 minutes after liftoff. The launch took place from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex in New Zealand at 10:09 p.m. EST.
RAISE 4 carries eight payloads designed to test propulsion and communications systems, a drag sail to help deorbit the spacecraft, and several additional experimental technologies. Rocket Lab CEO Peter Beck praised the mission, highlighting the precision and reliability delivered to one of the world’s leading space agencies and emphasizing its role in supporting the growth of Japan’s aerospace sector.
The satellite had originally been scheduled to launch aboard Japan’s Epsilon rocket, but delays followed a previous launch and a series of solid rocket motor failures during testing. Rocket Lab has a contract with JAXA for two Electron launches: one for RAISE 4 and another for eight CubeSats, which are now scheduled to fly on a separate mission next year.
MISSION SUCCESS! Payload deployment confirmed for Electron's 77th launch, releasing @JAXA_en's RAISE-4 satellite to a 540km LEO 🛰️🚀 pic.twitter.com/gJP0Mxrd1w
— Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) December 14, 2025
It's looking like a fine day to launch a rocket. Just under three hours to launch for @jaxa_en, with the early weather forecast 90% favorable for launch at 4:09 p.m. NZDT / 03:09 UTC. pic.twitter.com/cwG3aIR8Zs
— Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) December 14, 2025