Rocket Lab's New Rocket: First Launch Pad Challenge

Rocket Lab Seeks Approval for Alternative Transport of Neutron Rocket Components

Rocket Lab has submitted a request to regulatory bodies for authorization to move large Neutron rocket sections via waterways to the spaceport located off the Virginia coastline. This action is being taken to adhere to a September delivery schedule. The request, filed in July, serves as a provisional measure while the company awaits federal approval for a permanent channel dredging project at the Wallops Island facility.

Launch Site and Current Operations

Rocket Lab intends to initiate launches of its Neutron medium-lift rocket from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS) on Wallops Island, Virginia. This spaceport benefits from lower traffic compared to other locations and is characterized by shallow channels and waterways. Currently, the company’s Electron small rocket is launched from this same site.

Pre-Launch Preparations

A comprehensive series of tasks must be completed before the Neutron rocket can undertake its inaugural orbital flight. These include the assembly of rocket stages, a full “wet dress” rehearsal, and the acquisition of a launch license from the Federal Aviation Administration.

Prior to these steps, the rocket’s components need to be transported to the island itself.

Dredging Project and Infrastructure Limitations

Rocket Lab presented an application for the dredging project to the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) in March. The application emphasized the advantages of MARS, pointing out that launch facilities in Florida and other areas are often congested, potentially restricting launch frequency. MARS, conversely, “offers the potential for both frequent launch cadence and the capability to recover boosters,” according to Rocket Lab’s statement.

Despite these benefits, MARS faces a significant constraint: limited existing maritime infrastructure. Access to the Sloop Gut channel is dependent on suitable tidal conditions.

As noted by Rocket Lab and the Virginia Port Authority in their request, “there is currently no established, permanent method for ensuring safe and reliable access for the delivery of large infrastructure to Wallops Island.” (The Electron rocket, being considerably smaller, is delivered by road.)

Investment in MARS and Dredging Plans

Rocket Lab has invested substantial funds into the MARS site to prepare it for regular Neutron launches. The company plans to allocate over $5 million to dredge the approximately one-mile-long Sloop Gut, enabling regular barge deliveries of large Neutron rocket components.

The VMRC approved the dredging project in May; however, work has not yet commenced as the company awaits final federal approval from the Army Corps of Engineers.

Temporary Transport Solution: Kedging

While awaiting federal approval, Rocket Lab and VPA are seeking permission to employ a temporary transport method known as “kedging” to ensure the timely arrival of the first five hardware deliveries, beginning in September.

The company anticipates launching the inaugural test mission of the Neutron rocket in the latter half of 2025. However, the dredging application and the separate kedging request indicate that access to the site, rather than hardware delays, may present a challenge to the first launch.

Understanding Kedging

Kedging, a relatively obscure nautical technique, would allow barges to safely navigate the existing shallow channel. Workers would utilize a system of anchors and lines to maneuver the barge through the shallow waters. The company is requesting permission to use this method until either the end of June 2026 or the completion of the dredging work, whichever occurs first.

The duration of the dredging project remains uncertain. Should the kedging request be denied promptly, Rocket Lab has proposed transporting structures over the beach using ramps and cranes. Permission has been granted for up to three test events involving beach barge landings, but these are restricted between March 15 and August 31, making it an unsuitable long-term solution.

Alternative Transport Methods Considered

The dredging application details several alternative methods for transporting hardware to the island, including road transport and use of a public boat ramp. However, these options were ultimately deemed impractical due to factors such as cost, infrastructure limitations, and weather conditions.

Rocket Lab did not respond to a request for comment from TechCrunch. Both submitted documents underscore the critical importance of maritime access for Rocket Lab’s plans in Virginia.

Expediting the implementation of kedging will enable the company to receive hardware shipments and proceed with the remaining pre-flight preparations.