This Space Stock Extends Its Recent Rally After a Successful Launch, Space Force Contract
Rocket Lab (RKLB) shares surged Monday after another successful launch this weekend, adding to Friday's gains following a U.S. Space Force deal. The shares were up nearly 9% in recent trading, after jumping…
From the Fly On Wall Street archive. This article dates from Dec 23, 2025 and is preserved as first published.
Rocket Lab (RKLB) shares surged Monday after another successful launch this weekend, adding to Friday’s gains following a U.S. Space Force deal.
The shares were up nearly 9% in recent trading, after jumping close to 18% Friday. (Read our daily markets coverage here.)
Rocket Lab said Sunday that its Electron rocket took off successfully from a New Zealand spaceport this weekend. “The Wisdom Gods Guide” mission involved deploying satellites for Japan-based Earth imaging firm Q-shu Pioneers of Space, or iQPS.
Rocket Lab said Sunday that its Electron rocket took off successfully from a New Zealand spaceport this weekend.
The launch helped Rocket Lab reach a record 21 Electron rocket launches over the past year, with a 100% success rate, the company said.
Why This News Matters
The recent surge in Rocket Lab’s stock could point to growing confidence in its track record after a series of successful launches and a new Space Force contract.
On Friday, Rocket Lab announced a contract for up to $816 million to build a missile-defense satellite constellation for the U.S. Space Force. The agreement—marking the largest contract in the company’s history—will have Rocket Lab design and manufacture 18 satellites, Rocket Lab said.
With their recent gains, Rocket Lab shares have roughly tripled in value in 2025.
