Rocket Lab Delayed Neutron Over Voids in a Carbon-Composite Tank Dome. Here's Why That's Better News Than It Sounds.

Rocket Lab has delayed its Neutron rocket commercial debut to early 2027 after engineers discovered air pockets (voids) in the carbon-composite propellant dome that could cause explosions. While a setback, finding the defect during testing rather than at launch is preferable. The company faces financial pressure with negative free cash flow of $371 million over the last 12 months and must successfully launch Neutron to achieve profitability.