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Rocket Lab vs Spacex: How David Competes with Goliath in the New Space Economy

Despite higher cost-per-kilogram launch costs, Rocket Lab has carved out a successful niche in the competitive space launch market. Here's how they're winning through differentiation.

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Traditional rocket engines use gas-driven turbopumps, but Rocket Lab's Rutherford engine uses electric motors. For small rockets, could this seemingly less efficient approach actually be optimal?

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Electric turbopumps eliminate complex gas generator systems and hot gas handling, dramatically simplifying manufacturing. But they require heavy batteries and are less thermodynamically efficient. Is this trade-off worth it for rapid manufacturing and lower part count?

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Marcus ElwoodMarcus ElwoodSenior Technology Analyst & Hardware Enthusiast

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