Rocket Lab has official opened Launch Complex 3, its dedicated test, launch, and landing facility for its reusable rocket Neutron.
Located within the Virginia Spaceport Authority’s (VSA) Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS) at Pad 0D on Wallops Island, Virginia, Launch Complex 3 stands ready to deliver reportedly the largest orbital launch capacity in the Spaceport’s history with Neutron: Rocket Lab’s reusable launch vehicle capable of launching 13,000kg (33,000 pounds) to space for commercial constellations, national security and interplanetary missions, and eventually human spaceflight.
Rocket Lab founder and CEO, Sir Peter Beck, said: “Launch Complex 3 is our commitment to providing assured access to space and the launch site diversity that’s needed in the United States for its most important missions. Our Neutron rocket, with its ability for responsive space access as a high cadence reusable launch vehicle, expands Virginia’s aerospace capabilities to enable the United States to quickly and reliably reach the International Space Station and low Earth orbit, as well as explore beyond Earth and on to the Moon and Mars. Together with the Commonwealth of Virginia, VSA, and NASA, we’re strengthening the nation’s leadership in space while creating new opportunities for innovation and growth in the state and beyond, and I’m thankful for their continued support of Rocket Lab in Virginia.”
Rocket Lab Vice President – Neutron, Shaun D’Mello, added: “Launch Complex 3 is an incredibly complex engineering feat that serves as a monument to exquisite design, streamlined operations, and the competitive advantage of Rocket Lab’s speed and efficiency. That Launch Complex 3 was built and is now operational in less than two years of construction is down to the unwavering dedication from our Virginia-based team of 60+ highly skilled staff, and the continued support, investment, and commitment from our partners in the state of Virginia. I’m excited to bring a new launch capability to Wallops Island with Neutron ahead of its maiden flight from Launch Complex 3.”
Designed to support testing, launch, and return-to-Earth missions for Rocket Lab’s Neutron rocket, Launch Complex 3 plays a vital role in ensuring American leadership in space as a rapid response capable launch site.
Construction on Launch Complex 3 began in late 2023, with the site operational and officially opened in August 2025. More than 60 contractors were involved in the site’s development to supply services, hardware, and materials – many of them Virginia-based local workers and companies.
Launch Complex 3 is Rocket Lab’s fourth launch site. Its completed construction in less than two years is the latest demonstration of the Company’s speed and expertise at delivering world-class launch facilities globally. Launch Complex 3 is located directly next to Rocket Lab Launch Complex 2, the Company’s exclusive-use orbital launch pad for its Electron launch vehicle – the world’s most frequently flown small orbital rocket – within the same spaceport, further strengthening the nation’s leadership in space while creating new opportunities for innovation and growth in Virginia and beyond.
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