On 2026-08-27, Rocket Lab announced that the Hungry Hippo fairing section of its Neutron rocket completed all necessary testing before its first flight, including opening and closing of the halves in flight-like conditions. ^[1] American company Rocket Lab confirmed plans for the first test flight of its reusable Neutron rocket by the end of 2026. ^[2] Earlier in August 2026, Rocket Lab reported that the Hungry Hippo fairing had received all required subystems, including thermal protection, control surfaces, and avionics. ^[3] In August 2026, Rocket Lab disclosed that its Archimedes engine had completed over 400 hot-fire tests, with control and durability confirmed across flight hardware for all major components. ^[4] Rocket Lab revealed that the first Archimedes engines for Neutron's debut flight are currently in production. ^[5] Rocket Lab recently completed integration tests for the 'Hungry Hippo' fairing and conducted hundreds of tests for the Archimedes engine. ^[6] The Neutron rocket's fairing is permanently attached to the first stage and deploys during flight, eliminating the need for a separate capture system. ^[7] Rocket Lab holds several satellite launch contracts with the Neutron rocket, including one with the U.S. Space Force. ^[8]