Rocket Lab Expands Space Tech Portfolio with STARRAY Solar Arrays and Boosts Defense Sector Presence

Rocket Lab, a California-based aerospace company, is making significant strides in the space industry, demonstrating that it offers more than just rocket launches. The company recently introduced a new line of customizable solar arrays, called the Standardized Array or STARRAY, which aims to simplify the satellite manufacturing process.

This product is specifically designed to meet the needs of first-time satellite manufacturers who want to avoid the time-consuming process of designing and testing their own solar arrays from scratch.

STARRAY Line Offers Customizable Solar Arrays with Efficient, Cost-Effective Solutions for Satellites

The STARRAY line, unveiled at the 40th Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, offers a variety of pre-engineered solar array configurations. These configurations allow customers to select options based on their specific needs while benefiting from the proven reliability and performance of Rocket Lab’s vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities. The introduction of STARRAY is intended to streamline the satellite production process, offering efficient and customizable solutions for a wide range of satellite missions.

The STARRAY line offers seven different solar array sizes, with power outputs ranging from 100 watts to over 2,000 watts. Rocket Lab’s Vice President of Space Systems, Brad Clevenger, emphasized that the goal is to provide mission-specific customization with quick turnaround times and reduced costs. This flexibility and efficiency make STARRAY a compelling choice for customers seeking high-quality solar arrays without the lengthy design and testing phases typically required in satellite manufacturing.

Rocket Lab’s Acquisition of SolAero Enhances Capabilities and Expands Military and Aerospace Reach

In 2022, Rocket Lab acquired SolAero, a company specializing in space solar power technologies. This acquisition significantly enhanced Rocket Lab’s space systems capabilities by integrating solar cell manufacturing into its in-house production process. This vertically integrated approach allows Rocket Lab to streamline the entire production process, from solar cells and assemblies to fully functional solar arrays, ensuring faster and more cost-effective manufacturing for its customers.

Beyond its advancements in solar array technology, Rocket Lab is also expanding its presence in other areas of the space industry. The company was recently selected as a potential partner for the U.S. military’s multibillion-dollar hypersonic technology programs.

Additionally, its HASTE (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) rocket is set to launch the DART AE mission, which is part of the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit’s program focused on hypersonic and high-cadence airborne testing. Rocket Lab’s growing portfolio highlights its increasing influence and versatility within the broader aerospace sector.