Rocket Lab is buying Iridium’s satellite network for $8 billion to take on SpaceX

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Rocket Lab announced plans to acquire Iridium Communications for $8 billion, combining its launch services with Iridium's satellite network. This acquisition aims to strengthen Rocket Lab's position against SpaceX, leveraging Iridium's 66 low-Earth orbit satellites and extensive communication services for diverse users worldwide.

Rocket Lab’s Electron launch vehicle lifting off from its launch complex in New Zealand. | Image: RocketLab Rocket Lab, the space company best known for its small satellite launcher Electron, has announced plans to acquire Iridium Communications for $8 billion. The deal will combine Rocket Lab's launch services and spacecraft manufacturing with Iridium's satellite-based communications network, putting it in a better position to challenge SpaceX. Iridium offers communications services to over 2.5 million subscribers around the globe. Its users tap into Iridium's constellation of 66 low-Earth orbit satellites and L-band spectrum to maintain contact with people on ships, aircraft, and in other remote locations. Iridium partnered with SpaceX to launc … Read the full story at The Verge.