Rocket Lab Stock Decline Tied to Neutron Rocket Delay
Rocket Lab shares have faced sustained downward pressure following the company's announcement of a delayed Neutron rocket launch. The medium-lift vehicle's debut has been pushed from late 2025 to 2026, with CEO Peter Beck emphasizing safety refinements over schedule adherence. Hardware testing continues while projected development costs approach $360 million.
Analysts note the delay's financial impact masked what WOULD have been positive adjusted EBITDA in Q3. The Neutron program represents Rocket Lab's strategic pivot toward heavy payload capabilities, targeting constellation deployments and interplanetary missions. Market reaction reflects investor recalibration of timelines in the capital-intensive aerospace sector.