TLDR:
- Rocket Lab gets $1M CAD from CSA for satellite tech innovation.
- Rocket Lab awarded $999K CAD to develop new reaction wheel for satellites.
- CSA funding boosts Rocket Lab’s satellite tech growth in Canada.
- Rocket Lab expands Canadian operations with $1M CAD reaction wheel grant.
- Rocket Lab targets larger satellites with new reaction wheel, backed by CSA.
Rocket Lab Corporation (RKLB) saw its stock price rise by 3.63% to $53.43 at the close of trading at 4:00 PM EST.
Rocket Lab USA, Inc., RKLB
The positive movement in the stock market coincided with a significant development for the company, as it was awarded nearly $1 million CAD in funding by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). This funding is aimed at developing a new medium-class reaction wheel designed to support satellites weighing between 500kg and 1,000kg, expanding Rocket Lab’s presence in the space industry.
Rocket Lab Receives $999,951 CAD for Reaction Wheel Development
The Canadian Space Agency’s funding supports Rocket Lab’s efforts to create a reaction wheel designed for larger satellites. The wheel will be capable of handling satellites with more significant moments of inertia and will operate in low Earth orbit and beyond. The contract is part of a broader $14.2 million CAD initiative to foster innovation in Canadian space technology.
Rocket Lab will develop the new product through its Canadian subsidiary, with the reaction wheel being designed and manufactured in the company’s Toronto facility. This development is significant, as Rocket Lab has been a key player in Canada’s satellite hardware ecosystem for over two decades. The CSA’s investment is a step towards strengthening Canada’s domestic space technology capabilities and ensuring its continued growth in the global space market.
Expansion of Rocket Lab’s Canadian Footprint and Space Portfolio
Rocket Lab’s Canadian operations have expanded significantly since the company acquired Toronto-based Sinclair Interplanetary in 2020. The acquisition allowed Rocket Lab to increase its presence in Canada, focusing on advanced satellite attitude determination and control hardware. The company already offers a portfolio of flight-proven reaction wheels that have been used in over 300 satellites.
The new reaction wheel aims to enhance Rocket Lab’s space systems offerings, targeting the growing demand for high-performance solutions in the satellite market. The technology aims to support next-generation applications, increasing Rocket Lab’s ability to serve a broader customer base. This move positions Rocket Lab as a key player in the satellite hardware sector, which continues to see rising demand for more sophisticated components for larger spacecraft.
Rocket Lab continues to grow its portfolio with the addition of advanced space technologies like the reaction wheel. This expansion aligns with the company’s goal of providing reliable and cost-effective solutions across various segments, including commercial, defense and national security markets. The company’s commitment to innovation and its growing footprint in the Canadian space ecosystem positions Rocket Lab to remain a leader in the rapidly evolving global space industry.

