The mission, dubbed RAISE and Shine, lifted off from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand at 3:09am UTC on 14 December 2025 (4:09pm NZDT). The Electron rocket successfully deployed Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s (JAXA) RApid Innovative payload demonstration SatellitE-4 (RAISE-4), a technology demonstration spacecraft carrying eight experimental systems developed by Japanese private companies, universities and research institutions.
The launch is the first of two dedicated Electron missions for JAXA under its Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration Program, which aims to test and validate new space technologies emerging from Japan’s growing space sector.
Rocket Lab said the successful mission highlights the increasing integration of commercial launch providers into government space programs around the world.
While Electron is well established as the leading small-launch vehicle in the United States, the company said it is also becoming the preferred option internationally for dedicated and reliable access to space.
A second dedicated launch for JAXA is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026, with another Electron mission for the European Space Agency planned for early next year.
Rocket Lab founder and chief executive Sir Peter Beck said the mission demonstrated the company’s ability to deliver precise and dependable launch services for major space agencies.
“This mission delivered the accuracy and reliability expected by one of the world’s most respected space agencies,” Beck said. “We’re proud to support JAXA with dedicated access to space that helps drive the growth of Japan’s aerospace economy, and to continue providing the responsiveness and performance Japanese satellite operators have come to rely on.”
The RAISE and Shine launch was Rocket Lab’s 19th mission of the year, extending a new annual launch record set just last month after two missions were flown within 48 hours.
The company’s next launch for 2025 is expected later this month from Launch Complex 2, with further details to be announced shortly.