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    US Space Force demonstrates responsive launch for VICTUS HAZE mission, begins on-orbit operations [Image 4 of 5]

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    A long-exposure night photograph captures a rocket launch trail ascending nearly vertically from a ground-based launch site before arcing over at high altitude. The bright luminous streak dominates the frame against a dark star-filled sky, with the launch pad illuminated below on rolling green terrain. The trajectory shows the rocket reaching apogee and beginning to curve, consistent with a ballistic missile or interceptor test.

    NEW ZEALAND

    06.19.2026

    Courtesy Photo

    Space Systems Command

    A Rocket Lab Electron launch vehicle lifts off at 3:19 a.m. PT from the company’s Launch Complex-1 (LC-1) in Mahia, New Zealand, as part of the U.S. Space Force Tactically Responsive Space (TacRS) VICTUS HAZE mission, June 19, 2026. This launch was executed after Space Systems Command System Delta 89’s Space Safari Office issued a Notice-to-Launch (NTL) order which required Rocket Lab to posture for launch to a previously unknown orbit with only a 24-hour notice. The mission will now transition into an on-orbit focus placing operationally relevant systems through realistic rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) threat response scenarios. VICTUS HAZE is a multi-launch, multi-vehicle mission designed to demonstrate the Nation’s capability to rapidly acquire, launch, and operate space vehicles on operationally relevant timelines in response to urgent on-orbit threats. (Photo courtesy of Rocket Lab)

    IMAGE INFO

    Date Taken: 06.19.2026
    Date Posted: 06.22.2026 16:13
    Photo ID: 9765525
    VIRIN: 260619-X-X0813-2003
    Resolution: 2831x4245
    Size: 2.04 MB
    Location: NZ
    Web Views: 74
    Downloads: 9

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    This work, US Space Force demonstrates responsive launch for VICTUS HAZE mission, begins on-orbit operations [Image 5 of 5], must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    GALLERY

    An aerial photograph taken at dusk or dawn shows a small black rocket standing vertically on a launch pad situated on a coastal headland. The launch complex includes several support buildings and infrastructure, with the ocean and a small rocky island visible in the background. The warm orange and blue sky tones suggest either sunrise or sunset conditions.
    A black rocket or launch vehicle is positioned on a launch pad with the ocean and a twilight sky in the background. The rocket bears visible 'Space Force' branding and insignia, suggesting a United States Space Force mission. The image is taken at dusk or dawn, creating a dramatic atmospheric backdrop.
    A rocket is captured at the moment of nighttime liftoff, with intense engine plumes illuminating the surrounding steam and water suppression clouds. The bright blue-white exhaust flame is clearly visible beneath the rocket body, creating dramatic contrast against the dark sky. Debris, water droplets, and dense smoke billow outward from the launch pad.
    A long-exposure night photograph captures a rocket launch trail ascending nearly vertically from a ground-based launch site before arcing over at high altitude. The bright luminous streak dominates the frame against a dark star-filled sky, with the launch pad illuminated below on rolling green terrain. The trajectory shows the rocket reaching apogee and beginning to curve, consistent with a ballistic missile or interceptor test.
    A rocket is captured at the moment of nighttime launch from a ground-based launch pad, with intense engine ignition producing bright flames, billowing white smoke, and water deluge suppression system spray visible around the base. The rocket appears to be a small-to-medium class vehicle, partially illuminated by the engine exhaust glow against a completely dark sky. The launch infrastructure includes a launch mount, support arms, and bundled conduit or cable runs leading away from the pad.

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    TAGS

    Space Systems Command
    U.S. Space Force (USSF)
    Tactically Responsive Space
    VICTUS HAZE

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