Rocket Lab has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the parent holding company of Geost, LLC, an Arizona-based specialist in electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) payloads for national security satellites. The deal, valued at $275 million in a combination of cash and Rocket Lab shares, includes an additional earnout of up to $50 million based on revenue targets and is expected to close in the second half of 2025.
This acquisition marks Rocket Lab’s entry into the satellite payload segment, reinforcing its position as a full-spectrum provider of space solutions for national security missions. Geost brings over 20 years of experience delivering EO/IR systems for missile warning, tracking, surveillance, and space domain awareness missions.
By integrating Geost’s payload capabilities, Rocket Lab aims to streamline spacecraft production and reduce integration risks, costs, and development timelines. The addition of Geost’s technologies will allow for more responsive and mission-specific satellite systems built to support the U.S. Department of Defense’s distributed space architectures.
Sir Peter Beck, founder and CEO of Rocket Lab, stated: “Rocket Lab was founded to disrupt the traditional space industry and we’re doing just that by expanding our ability to deliver complete, mission-critical space solutions. With the acquisition of Geost, we’re bringing advanced electro-optical and infrared payloads in-house to support secure, responsive, and cost-effective systems at scale.”
He added, “These technologies enable spacecraft that can detect, interpret, and respond to threats in real time, enhancing our role as a trusted provider of end-to-end space capabilities for the United States and its allies—with greater speed, intelligence, and operational control.”
Geost’s General Manager and CEO of Lightridge Solutions, Bill Gattle, said: “Integrating Geost’s advanced optical capabilities is a natural next step for Rocket Lab as the company expands its end-to-end space systems. By bringing high-performance optical technologies in-house, Rocket Lab is strengthening its ability to deliver responsive, full-stack solutions for government and commercial missions.”
He continued, “Backed by the infrastructure to produce these systems at scale, Rocket Lab is well-positioned to meet accelerating demand for high-performance space solutions. The addition of payloads to its vertically integrated portfolio not only expands mission capability but also elevates Rocket Lab’s standing as a leading end-to-end space systems provider.”
The acquisition includes Geost’s product assets, intellectual property, and facilities in Tucson and northern Virginia, as well as 115 skilled professionals. Following the transaction, Rocket Lab’s workforce will grow to over 2,600 employees across its global network of facilities and launch sites.