Rocket Lab $RKLB completes Neutron's first-stage forward dome as development advances

Rocket Lab $RKLB has reportedly completed the manufacturing and curing of Neutron's first-stage forward dome, marking another step in the development of its medium-lift launch vehicle.
The component is set to undergo material testing before work continues on the first-stage propellant tank assembly.
The milestone follows manufacturing challenges earlier this year. A first-stage tank ruptured during pressure testing in January, while defects discovered in a subsequent forward dome required changes to the carbon-composite manufacturing process.
Neutron represents a significant expansion of Rocket Lab's launch business. The company has indicated an average selling price of $50 million to $55 million per Neutron launch, compared with approximately $8.5 million for commercial Electron missions.
That pricing creates substantial revenue potential, although Neutron's larger payload capacity, development costs and operational requirements make the two vehicles fundamentally different.
With Neutron's inaugural flight pushed into 2027, successful structural testing and tank integration remain important milestones before Rocket Lab can begin converting its launch commitments into operational revenue.
Source: Rocket Lab, company earnings calls, Ars Technica