Electron Rocket Takes Flight at California Science Center: A Look at the World’s Most Successful Launch Vehicle

The California Science Center’s Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is now home to a historic Electron rocket, generously donated by Rocket Lab USA. This leading company in launch services and space systems has made the rocket available for public viewing at the center’s Work in Progress gallery. Visitors can get an up-close look at this iconic rocket for the first time.

Peter Beck, founder and CEO of Rocket Lab, expressed pride in being part of this exhibit alongside other influential aerospace companies in Southern California. He emphasized that Rocket Lab’s mission is to make space accessible to everyone and hopes that the inclusion of Electron in the exhibit will inspire future leaders in STEM fields.

The Electron rocket is known as one of the world’s most successful launch vehicles, with 50 launches completed from sites in New Zealand and Virginia, USA. Notably, Electron is the first carbon composite orbital launch vehicle and the first to use 3D printed engines. With 10 Rutherford engines that are 3D printed and manufactured in Long Beach, California, Electron has successfully deployed 190 satellites for customers across various sectors since its inaugural launch in 2017.