Rocket Lab completed its first dedicated mission for the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, deploying the RAISE‑4 technology satellite from New Zealand on December 14, 2025. The flight, called RAISE and Shine, marked Rocket Lab’s 19th launch of 2025, extending a new annual cadence record.
The mission placed RAISE‑4 into a circular orbit to begin on‑orbit demonstrations for Japanese industry and research partners. This was the first Electron launch directly contracted with JAXA, following several years of work with Japanese operators. The milestone strengthens access to space for small payloads that need schedule certainty.
Contract deepens Japan launch options
The JAXA deal covers two Electron launches, with a second rideshare mission scheduled for early 2026. The agency’s Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration Program uses RAISE spacecraft to prove new hardware and components developed across universities, firms, and labs.
That work continued after Japan’s small Epsilon programme suffered a failure in October 2022, which had disrupted earlier demonstration flights. By shifting RAISE‑4 to Electron, JAXA secured a near‑term window for tests that advance domestic suppliers.
“This dedicated mission delivered precision and reliability for one of the world’s most respected space agencies,” said Sir Peter Beck.
Record cadence targets government demand
A higher launch tempo underpins government and allied missions that want dedicated rides outside congested rideshare queues. Rocket Lab said RAISE and Shine was its 19th mission this year, building on an annual record set in November after two Electron flights lifted off within 48 hours.
Another Electron launch from Launch Complex 2 in Virginia remains scheduled for later in December, subject to range and weather. The current cadence reflects demand for small launches that place timing control with the customer.
The RAISE‑4 satellite will demonstrate eight technologies selected through a national call, spanning private companies, universities, and research institutions. Demonstrations like these feed future missions and help firms move prototypes toward commercial products. Japan now has access to dedicated launch to help maintain their programme rhythm as upgraded domestic vehicles mature.
For Rocket Lab, the direct agency contract broadens an already large Japanese customer base that includes Earth observation and debris‑removal operators. The second JAXA mission on Electron is slated for early 2026, continuing the cross‑border workflow between Japan and New Zealand.