Rocket Lab’s ASI facilities in Colorado. Photo: Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is opening a new space systems complex in Littleton, Colorado, with two two mission operations centers, the company announced Feb. 2. The new facility will expand Rocket Lab’s presence in Colorado, which it established with the acquisition of mission software company Advanced Solutions, Inc. (ASI) in October 2021.

The company wants to double its Colorado headcount to more than 120 people by early next year, in roles such as flight software development; guidance, navigation, and control (GNC); spacecraft simulation; and systems engineering. The new facility will add 40,000 square feet of new lab, production, and office space, near the current ASI location. It is expected to be completed by the end of this year. 

Rocket Lab is working to become an end-to-end space company with its Photon spacecraft line and satellite components. CEO Peter Beck said this expansion will enhance the company’s space systems portfolio to meet customer demand. 

“As an end-to-end space company, we can support every phase of our customer’s missions from initial spacecraft design, manufacture, and test, right through to launch and on-orbit operation,” Beck said. “Flight software is a vital part of every space mission and with our new complex and expanded team, we can build on ASI’s strong heritage to deliver industry-leading flight software products to our global customers at scale.”