Summary by Futu AI
Rocket Lab reported strong Q3 2024 financial results with revenue reaching $104.8 million, up 55% year-over-year, driven by significant growth in its Space Systems segment. Space Systems revenue surged 81% to $83.9 million, while Launch Services revenue was $21.0 million. The company achieved a gross margin of 26.7%, improving from 22.1% in Q3 2023.Research and development expenses increased 79% to $47.7 million, primarily due to continued investment in Neutron launch vehicle development and expansion of spacecraft capabilities. The company maintained strong liquidity with $292.5 million in cash and cash equivalents plus $211.2 million in marketable securities as of September 30, 2024. During the quarter, Rocket Lab completed three successful Electron launches.The company's backlog remained robust at $1.05 billion, with Space Systems accounting for $721.2 million and Launch Services for $326.4 million. Rocket Lab made significant progress on Neutron development, including completing construction of the rocket's Assembly, Integration and Test facility in Virginia and increasing Archimedes engine testing cadence. The company also secured a new contract for two dedicated Neutron launches with a commercial satellite constellation customer.