Rocket Lab successfully launched two Earth observation microsatellites for Open Cosmos on January 22, 2026, from its Mahia facility in New Zealand. The mission deployed SSTL-designed spacecraft into a 550-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit, equipped with high-resolution multispectral imaging capabilities. The satellites are designed to support climate monitoring applications and precision agriculture initiatives, delivering critical environmental and agricultural data to end users worldwide.

The flight utilized Rocket Lab's Electron launch vehicle, a dedicated small-lift launcher specifically designed for rapid deployment of small satellites. Electron's proven track record and Mahia's dedicated New Zealand launch site enabled efficient scheduling and mission flexibility for Open Cosmos, supporting the growing commercial demand for responsive space access.

The mission achieved full success, with both satellites reaching their intended orbit and beginning operations. This launch further strengthened Rocket Lab's position as a leading provider of dedicated small satellite launch services while expanding Earth observation capabilities available to commercial and research organizations focused on environmental monitoring and agricultural optimization.