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

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.