Rocket Lab’s Future and Financial Performance
Rocket Lab (NASDAQ: RKLB) is projected to become a significant player in the space launch industry with its upcoming Neutron rocket, expected to compete directly with SpaceX’s Falcon 9. The Neutron rocket is set for its first test flight by the end of 2023, with commercial launches planned for 2026, and can deliver payloads comparable to Falcon 9, which charges approximately $50 million per flight. As of now, Rocket Lab’s total revenue over the last 12 months is $500 million.
Despite a recent surge in stock price—up over 1,000% since the start of 2023—investors face concerns about high expectations. The stock currently has a market cap of over $20 billion and a price-to-sales ratio of 45. Rocket Lab’s current backlog stands at $1 billion, with most customers waiting for the Neutron’s operational status before finalizing orders. Additionally, the company is eyeing lucrative government contracts, such as the $175 billion Golden Dome defense system, to further drive growth.
