Rocket Lab (RKLB) shares traded in a wide range during the week of October 26, 2026, closing near $59 with intraday highs above $61 after a sharp rally on October 27. The primary driver was updated Neutron medium-lift rocket development news, including a mid-October delay of the first launch into 2027 due to a carbon-composite tank defect and the subsequent shipment of the second stage and thrust module to the Virginia launch site for testing. Traders weighed these execution risks against Rocket Lab’s record $2.36 billion backlog, 62% year-over-year revenue growth in recent quarters, and the successful 98th Electron mission on October 23. The stock’s elevated valuation near 35 times 2026 sales reflects market-implied odds on Neutron timelines and satellite constellation demand, with Q3 2026 earnings expected in early November serving as the next key catalyst for sentiment.