Rocket Lab to Test Space Force Data Network Connection in Orbit in 2027

Rocket Lab announced plans to conduct an orbital test in 2027 that will evaluate the interoperability of its Photon spacecraft with the Space Force’s Space Data Network (SDN). The test will connect the Photon to the SDN’s core infrastructure, which is built by SpaceX. By validating the data link in orbit, the test will help confirm that the SDN can reliably receive and transmit mission‑critical information from a variety of commercial platforms. The exercise also marks a step toward broader integration of commercial satellite assets into the U. S. Space Force’s communications architecture.