Rocket Lab Shares Slide Amid Thin Trading Despite Strong Contract Wins
Rocket Lab's 8.46% Friday drop to $70.65 reflects holiday market illiquidity rather than deteriorating fundamentals. The space technology firm demonstrates operational excellence with 21 successful Electron launches in 2025 while securing an $816 million Space Force satellite contract that positions it alongside defense primes like Lockheed Martin.
Analysts remain divided on near-term momentum, with price targets spanning $61-$90. The pullback mirrors broader sector volatility after 2024's rally in space-related equities. Trading volume of 23.16 million shares was notably light during the post-Christmas session.
Strategic government contracts and launch cadence reliability suggest the selloff may represent profit-taking rather than structural concerns. The SDA satellite production award particularly underscores Rocket Lab's transition from pure launch provider to diversified space infrastructure company.
