technology demonstration
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.Rocket Lab Successfully Executes First Dedicated Launch for JAXA
words.Rocket Lab’s Electron lifted off from Mahia, New Zealand, on Dec 14 2025 (03:09 UTC) for the “RAISE And Shine” mission, its first dedicated launch for JAXA. The flight deployed the RAISE‑4 satellite, carrying eight Japanese technology‑demonstration payloads. It marked Rocket Lab’s 19th launch of 2025, extending its record annual cadence. The company has slated a second JAXA mission for Q1 2026 and a dedicated ESA launch in early 2026, underscoring growing international demand for its small‑launch services.
