WALLOPS ISLAND, Virginia. January 29, 2026 - Rocket Lab’s “Hungry Hippo,” an innovative captive fairing for its Neutron launch vehicle, arrived at Wallops Island Jan. 23 by barge as preparations continue for Neutron’s first launch from Virginia’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport Pad 0-D.

The Hungry Hippo fairing is unique by remaining attached to Neutron’s first stage throughout launch, payload deployment, and landing. This design enables recovery of the vehicle as a single, reusable system. Unlike traditional disposable fairings, Hungry Hippo opens to release the payload before closing again for return to Earth. Neutron will be capable of launching 13,000kg (33,000 pounds) to low-Earth orbit.

Now at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport’s Assembly, Integration, and Test Facility, the fairing will be integrated with Neutron’s first stage and undergo pre-launch testing as Rocket Lab advances toward Neutron’s inaugural launch.

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The Virginia Spaceport Authority (officially known as the Virginia Commercial Space Flight Authority) is a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia. VSA owns and operates the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS) located at Wallops Island, Va., USA. VSA provides assured access to space by operating, maintaining, and growing a premier spaceport, stimulating aerospace-related economic development in the Commonwealth, and promoting educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Media Contact:

Lillian Palmbach

Chief of External Relations

757- 837-3304

lillian.palmbach@vaspace.org

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