Space Commerce Week

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A weekly newsletter published to the community highlighting the news of the week and letting you know who our podcast guest is that week. We will look ahead to the coming week to see what's happening and let you know. www.exterrajsc.com

  1. 2일 전

    A UK Launch Company in Crisis, and NASA Taps a Fresh Face for the Sixth Private ISS Mission

    The UK small launch sector is facing a rough moment. Orbex, one of Britain’s most prominent homegrown rocket companies, has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators after its Series D fundraising round came up empty. Merger and acquisition talks also failed to produce a deal. With no funding lifeline in sight, the company is now formally exploring the sale of all or part of its business. It’s a painful moment for a company that was genuinely close to something. Orbex had brought hundreds of skilled jobs to Scotland, had been at the vanguard of UK space ambitions, and was on the verge of test flights for its Prime microlauncher later this year. All of that is now in limbo. But here’s where the story takes a turn. Skyrora — another UK launch company — has stepped forward with an interest in acquiring select Orbex assets, including the Sutherland Spaceport in northern Scotland. Skyrora says it’s prepared to invest up to ten million pounds — roughly thirteen-and-a-half million dollars — subject to due diligence and negotiations with the administrators. The framing from Skyrora is explicitly nationalistic: keeping UK technology under UK ownership, protecting national infrastructure, and safeguarding the return on taxpayer investment that went into Orbex over the years. Now, nothing is done yet. Administrators have only just been notified, and the legal process has to run its course. But if Skyrora does pull this off, it would be a remarkable consolidation story — one UK launch company absorbing the assets of another to create something more resilient. The Sutherland Spaceport alone would be a significant prize, as it’s one of the few licensed launch facilities in Europe capable of reaching polar and sun-synchronous orbits. -0- A new wave of industrial connectivity could be about to reshape how industries operate in remote and underserved areas — and the timeline is tighter than you might expect. New research from satellite company Viasat, based on a survey of 600 industrial decision-makers worldwide, finds that 91% plan to adopt direct-to-device satellite technology within the next 18 months. The sectors involved span agriculture, energy, mining, logistics, and utilities — industries where reliable connectivity has long been a limiting factor. At the heart of this shift is a technology called Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Networks — or NB-NTN — a connectivity standard that allows IoT devices to maintain a satellite link when ground-based networks are unavailable or overstretched. Think of it as a seamless fallback that kicks in without any manual intervention. The data suggests momentum is already building. 78% of respondents say their IoT deployments have accelerated over the past year — and among organizations already using hybrid satellite-terrestrial setups, that figure jumps to 86%. Viasat frames this less as a performance upgrade and more as a pursuit of what the report calls “coverage certainty” — the ability to stay connected at scale, regardless of where you are or what the local infrastructure looks like. The findings also carry a pointed message for mobile network operators: direct-to-device satellite capability shouldn’t be treated as a niche add-on. According to the report, it represents a genuine opportunity to expand into new enterprise revenue streams — without requiring significant reinvestment in existing networks. -0- The Idaho National Laboratory just released a report called “Weighing the Future: Strategic Options for U.S. Space Nuclear Leadership”, and it lays out three distinct paths forward. The first is what the report calls “Go Big or Go Home” — a large-scale, hundred-to-five-hundred kilowatt electric project led by NASA or the Department of Defense. But it’s high risk, high reward, and requires consistent top-level funding and political will. The second option — dubbed the “Chessmaster’s Gambit” — splits the approach into two smaller public-private projects, both under a hundred kilowatts. One would put a reactor in lunar orbit or on the Moon’s surface. The other would be an in-space system. The appeal here is flexibility — private companies choose the technology, which distributes risk and keeps timelines more manageable. The third path, “Light the Path,” is the most cautious — a small radioisotope demonstration under one kilowatt, designed mainly to build regulatory frameworks and institutional knowledge before committing to bigger bets. For context on why this matters: NASA has already issued a directive to place a fission reactor on the Moon by fiscal year 2030. That’s four years away. The technology challenges are real — space reactors have to be lightweight, run at much higher temperatures than terrestrial units, and operate for a decade without maintenance. None of that is easy. Sebastian Corbisiero, the Department of Energy’s Space Reactor Initiative national technical director, described the moment as potentially being on the cusp of a major step forward for nuclear power in space. And given that competitors — particularly China — are investing heavily in space nuclear capabilities, the pressure to act is real. Which path the U.S. ultimately chooses will say a lot about its appetite for risk — and its confidence in the commercial sector to deliver. The Journal of Space Commerce is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support this work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. NASA has selected Vast Space for the sixth private astronaut mission to the ISS. The flight is targeting no earlier than summer 2027, launching on a SpaceX Falcon 9 carrying a Dragon spacecraft. The crew will spend up to 14 days aboard the station. This is a milestone for Vast, which is best known for its ambitions to build and operate its own commercial space station — the Haven-2 — as a successor to the ISS. A crewed mission to the station is exactly the kind of operational credibility the company needs to make that case. Vast has framed the mission as part of the broader transition to commercial space stations, and fully unlocking the orbital economy. The science portfolio planned for the mission spans biology, biotechnology, physical sciences, human research, and technology demonstrations. What’s interesting here is the strategic layering. Vast isn’t just flying to the ISS for the publicity — the company has a live call for research proposals open right now, meaning external researchers can submit experiments for consideration aboard this mission. That’s a signal that Vast is trying to build an actual customer base and research pipeline before its own station even exists. The ISS is scheduled for deorbit in 2030. Between now and then, these private astronaut missions serve a dual purpose: they generate revenue for NASA and its partners, and they give commercial operators like Vast the hands-on experience they’ll need to run stations on their own. -0- Analysts at MarketsandMarkets are projecting the global space situational awareness market — SSA, for short — will grow from about 1.7 billion dollars in 2025 to nearly 2.8 billion dollars by 2030. That’s a compound annual growth rate of ten percent over five years. SSA, if you’re not familiar, is the business of tracking what’s in orbit: active satellites, spent rocket bodies, debris fragments, and everything in between. As constellations like Starlink and others pour thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit, the risk of collisions — and the cost of getting it wrong — increases dramatically. The debris segment is expected to hold the largest share of the SSA market. That tracks. There are hundreds of thousands of debris objects in orbit too small to track reliably but large enough to be catastrophic. Even a centimeter-sized fragment at orbital velocity carries enormous kinetic energy. Geopolitically, there’s another driver: governments want independent visibility into what’s happening in their orbital neighborhoods. That’s pushing investment in indigenous SSA infrastructure, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, where China, India, Japan, and South Korea are all expanding their space programs and their appetite for homegrown tracking capabilities. The major players in this space currently include Lockheed Martin, L3Harris, Kratos, Parsons, and Peraton — all defense-adjacent firms with deep government relationships. But as the market grows, expect more commercial entrants chasing the non-government slice of that revenue. So the bottom line would appear to be that, if you’re operating in orbit, knowing where your spacecraft ... and everything else ... is has never been more important — or more valuable. -0- In Depth this week ... The space economy is booming — but not in the way you might expect. Forget rockets and moonshots. The real action right now is in data. Earth observation satellites, geospatial intelligence platforms, and satellite communications networks are driving a steady wave of mergers and acquisitions, and investors are paying serious money to get in. (Paywall) Deals in 2024 and 2025 are showing revenue multiples in the one-to-four-and-a-half times range, with EBITDA multiples stretching into the teens — healthy numbers that hold up well against broader aerospace benchmarks. The buyers range from defense giants filling gaps in their geospatial portfolios to private equity firms building roll-up platforms around recurring data revenue. The message from the deal tape is clear: space data is now considered core infrastructure, alongside defense, climate monitoring, and global connectivity. But here’s where it gets complicated. Regulators are catching up — fast. The European Union is advancing a Space Act that would treat certain satellite-derived data much like personal data under GDPR. The OECD is raising red flags about high-resolution imagery being combined with AI to

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  2. 2월 15일

    A Million-Satellite Constellation, and Tough Sledding for Space Tourism

    SpaceX has filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission seeking approval to launch up to one million satellites for what the company is calling an orbital data center system. To put that number in perspective, that’s roughly a thousand times larger than SpaceX’s current Starlink internet constellation. The FCC’s Space Bureau accepted the application last week, setting the wheels in motion for what could become an unprecedented expansion of commercial space operations. According to the filing, these satellites would operate at altitudes between 310 and 1,243 miles above Earth, organized in orbital shells spanning up to 30 miles each. The system would rely primarily on high-bandwidth optical links to communicate between satellites and connect with the existing Starlink network. What’s particularly interesting here is the timing. This filing comes on the heels of SpaceX’s acquisition of xAI, Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company. In the application, SpaceX characterizes this orbital data center system as the first step toward becoming what’s called a Kardashev Type Two civilization—that’s a theoretical framework describing a civilization advanced enough to harness the full power of its host star. SpaceX has requested several waivers from standard FCC regulations, including exemptions from typical deployment milestones and surety bond requirements. The commission has set March 6 as the deadline for public comments on the application. If approved, this would represent a fundamental shift in how we think about computing infrastructure—moving massive data processing capabilities off Earth and into orbit. -0- According to a new report from Verified Market Reports, the space robotics sector is positioned for robust expansion over the next decade. The market, valued at 5.1 billion dollars in 2024, is expected to reach 14.5 billion dollars by 2033—that’s a compound annual growth rate of 12.5 percent. The drivers behind this growth are multifaceted. There’s accelerating demand for on-orbit servicing, satellite life extension, debris mitigation, and planetary exploration. But what’s really changing the game are advances in autonomy and artificial intelligence. The report highlights how robotic systems are transitioning from government-led experimentation to commercially scalable deployment. We’re seeing robots designed for satellite servicing, refueling, inspection, and in-space assembly becoming integral to cost-optimization strategies for satellite operators. This directly supports longer satellite lifecycles, reduced launch frequency, and improved return on space infrastructure investments. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are redefining what’s operationally possible. Autonomous navigation, fault detection, and adaptive manipulation allow space robots to operate with minimal human intervention. This is crucial for mitigating communication latency and enabling deep-space and cislunar missions. The growth isn’t limited to commercial applications either. Space robotics is emerging as a core enabler for defense applications—satellite inspection, threat monitoring, and orbital asset protection. Governments worldwide are prioritizing resilient and responsive space infrastructure, creating sustained demand for robotic platforms. Looking ahead, robotic systems are foundational to lunar and Martian exploration strategies. They enable surface mobility, regolith handling, construction, and scientific experimentation while reducing human risk and establishing infrastructure for future crewed missions. Despite the momentum, challenges remain. High upfront development costs, technical complexity, regulatory uncertainty, and mission risk continue to present obstacles. However, the industry is addressing these through modular design architectures, digital twins, and simulation-driven development. Public-private partnerships are also playing a critical role by sharing financial risk and accelerating validation through government-sponsored missions. -0- Voyager Technologies and Max Space have announced a collaboration to advance expandable space habitat technology. This partnership brings together Voyager’s experience delivering mission-critical space systems with Max Space’s high-volume, low-mass expandable structure technology. According to Voyager chairman and CEO Dylan Taylor, the Moon is no longer viewed as a single destination or a symbolic achievement. It’s becoming the next operational domain in a growing space economy that spans exploration, science, national security, and commercial development. What makes expandable structures so significant? They offer a step change in how surface infrastructure can be delivered and deployed. Max Space’s technology is built on 40 years of on-orbit heritage and represents what the company says is a significant improvement over previous generations. The development path is phased and methodical. Ground validation and in-space demonstrations are planned for later this decade, with operational lunar and Mars capabilities aligned with NASA’s exploration timelines on the horizon. The partnership emphasizes early risk retirement, interoperability, and commercial scalability as guiding principles. This collaboration reflects a broader trend in the space industry—moving from short-duration missions to sustained operational presence beyond low Earth orbit. As the space economy expands, infrastructure designed for endurance and industrial-scale execution becomes increasingly important. Subscribe The Journal of Space Commerce is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support this work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate is inviting public feedback on its prioritization of technology shortfalls critical to civil space. The deadline for input is February 20, so if you’re listening to this and have expertise in the field, there’s still time to participate. NASA has identified 32 technology shortfalls—these are technology areas requiring further development to meet future exploration, science, and mission needs. Each shortfall includes a subset of specific functions that must be achieved to overcome that particular challenge. This represents a streamlined approach compared to NASA’s 2024 effort, which featured 187 shortfalls. The agency consolidated these into broader, integrated categories based on stakeholder feedback, making the process more efficient and accessible. Why does this matter? This prioritization framework will guide NASA’s evaluation of current technology development efforts and may inspire new investments within the agency or spark innovative partnerships. Understanding and prioritizing the most impactful efforts allows NASA to appropriately direct available resources to best support mission needs. The Space Technology Mission Directorate’s investment strategy is comprehensive. It aligns with the current Presidential Administration’s priorities and NASA’s Moon to Mars strategy. It focuses on science priorities identified in the Decadal Surveys. It fosters creation and growth of the space economy through industry partnerships and small business innovation. NASA is encouraging all U.S. businesses, organizations, agencies, and individuals with a vested interest in space technology to review the shortfall list and submit feedback. This collaborative approach to identifying and addressing technology gaps represents a best practice in government-industry partnership. The results will inform not just immediate investment decisions but also the development of long-term technology roadmaps. -0- NASA and Momentus have signed a Space Act Agreement for a mission demonstrating rendezvous and proximity operations, as well as formation flying in low Earth orbit. At the center of this mission is NASA’s R5 Spacecraft 10, which will act as a free-flying imager for Momentus’ Vigoride 7 Orbital Service Vehicle. The R5-S10 will assess spacecraft health and performance, marking a critical step in refining In-Space Assembly and Manufacturing capabilities—essential for future autonomous space operations. The mission is funded and managed by NASA’s Small Spacecraft Technology program and the Engineering Directorate at Johnson Space Center. There’s an additional military dimension to this mission. NASA is supporting Momentus in executing a rendezvous demonstration for the Air Force Research Lab’s SPACEWERX organization. The Low-Cost Multispectral Rendezvous and Proximity Operations Sensor suite will enhance spacecraft situational awareness and relative navigation—critical capabilities for satellite servicing and space debris management. The mission will also demonstrate inter-satellite link technology using WiFi-based data transmission. The CubeSat will transfer large files to the Vigoride host platform, which will then downlink them to ground stations. This demonstrates the viability of real-time space communication for future missions. Vigoride 7 is scheduled for launch no earlier than March 2026 aboard a SpaceX Transporter mission. -0- In Depth this week ... the dream of space tourism is hitting turbulence. Just weeks ago, Blue Origin announced it’s grounding its New Shepard tourist flights for at least two years, marking a dramatic shift in an industry that once promised exponential growth. (Paywall) The pause comes on the heels of Virgin Galactic’s suspension of operations back in June 2024. That means the suborbital space tourism market—the more affordable option for space travel—is effectively dormant through at least 2027. So what happened? Industry analysts say the business model simply didn’t work. Despite ticket prices of up to $600,000, companies couldn’t turn a profit. Vehicles required weeks of refurbishment between flights. The rapid reusability that makes SpaceX profitable never materialized for

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  3. 2월 8일

    NASA’s Reauthorization Bill Focuses on Commercial Contributions

    The House Science, Space and Technology Committee took its first look at the NASA 2026 Reauthorization bill in a markup hearing this week. “The NASA Reauthorization Act of 2026 ensures that America does not merely participate in the next year of space exploration, but that we lead it.” Brian Babin (R-TX) The full committee markup is the first opportunity for lawmakers to formally vote on the underlying bill, and offer amendments. The bill brings a particular focus on the role the commercial space industry will play in future NASA missions. It explicitly empowers the NASA Administrator to enter into agreements and public–private partnerships with U.S. commercial providers to support human exploration of the Moon and cislunar space, expanding a model pioneered for cargo and crew to the International Space Station (ISS). The bill directs NASA to “support the development and demonstration of” human-rated lunar landing capabilities and, subject to funding, to procure those capabilities from “not fewer than two commercial providers,” effectively guaranteeing a multi‑vendor market for lunar landers and related services. The legislation requires that any commercial provider supplying human lunar landing systems be a U.S. commercial provider, reinforcing a domestic industrial base for high‑end human‑spaceflight hardware and operations. By tying these systems directly to NASA’s Moon‑to‑Mars roadmap and Artemis missions, the bill signals steady demand for lunar transportation and surface operations that could anchor long‑term business plans in the commercial space sector. Committee Chairman Brian Babin of Texas said that passing the reauthorization is essential to America’s future in space. “The NASA Reauthorization Act of 2026 ensures that America does not merely participate in the next year of space exploration, but that we lead it. It strengthens our commitment to returning astronauts to the moon and building the capabilities needed to send humans onward to Mars,” Babin said. “It supports the systems, the technologies, and partnerships required for deep space missions, while also fueling a growing commercial economy and low Earth orbit that will sustain American leadership for many decades. With China nipping at our heels and investing heavily in its own ambitions beyond Earth, we cannot afford to drift without direction. This legislation ensures the United States sets the pace, establishes the standards, and carries forward the spirit of exploration that has long defined our nation.” The bill positions commercial space stations and other private platforms as the backbone of U.S. low‑Earth orbit operations once the ISS is retired, directing NASA to spell out its research, development, and operational requirements in orbit and share them with U.S. industry. Another section orders a report on the risks of any gap in U.S. access to low‑Earth orbit platforms, including the potential impact on “the development of the United States-based commercial space industry,” and explicitly lists “increasing investment in and accelerating development of commercial space stations” as one option to prevent such a gap. By writing commercial platforms into the strategy for replacing the ISS, the bill effectively treats private space stations as critical national infrastructure and a central pillar of the future orbital economy. While the bill aims to expand commercial roles, it also tightens guardrails by requiring NASA to certify compliance with existing “commercial item” and competition statutes. Collectively, the provisions would entrench commercial companies as indispensable partners in NASA’s exploration, ISS transition, and low‑Earth orbit strategies. -0- Blue Origin will pause its New Shepard flights for at least two years, and shift resources to further accelerate development of the company’s human lunar capabilities, the company announced late last week. Blue Origin says the decision reflects its commitment to the nation’s goal of returning to the Moon and establishing a permanent, sustained lunar presence. New Shepard has flown 38 times and carried 98 humans above the Kármán line to date. New Shepard has also launched more than 200 scientific and research payloads from students, academia, research organizations, and NASA. Blue Origin’s larger rocket, New Glenn, is slated to fly for the third time in late February, though a launch window has not been announced. That flight is scheduled to deploy the BlueBird 7 communications satellite for AST SpaceMobile. -0- A Series C funding round has resulted in a $470 million growth capital raise for CesiumAstro, which the company says cements its position as a mission-critical provider of next-generation space and defense communications. The funding includes $270 million in equity, led by Trousdale Ventures. The capital will fuel CesiumAstro’s rapid scale-up, including the build-out of a new 270,000-square-foot headquarters, expanded manufacturing capacity, and accelerated deployment of its software-defined, AI-enabled space communications platforms worldwide. The funding comes amid strong operational execution, as CesiumAstro advances multiple government and commercial programs and expands its portfolio of software-defined communications systems. Proceeds will support expanded manufacturing, accelerated AI-enabled communications development, scaled production of the company’s fully integrated Element LEO satellite, and growth of global technical and program teams. The Journal of Space Commerce is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support this work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. A mission order for the fifth private astronaut mission (PAM) to the International Space Station has been signed by NASA and Axiom Space, the fifth consecutive such award granted by the agency. Axiom Mission 5 (Ax-5) is targeted to launch no earlier than January 2027 from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida and is expected to spend up to 14 days docked to the space station. The crew complement is pending final agreements and agency and international approvals and will be announced at a future date. As part of the NASA award, Axiom Space brings on Voyager Technologies as a teammate participating in payload integration. In four years, Axiom Space has successfully executed four missions onboard the space station, flying 14 private and government astronauts, who conducted more than 160 science and research activities, and more than 100 outreach and media engagements while on orbit. -0- The satellite propulsion market, which encompasses propulsion systems that enable satellites to maintain orbit, change trajectories, control orientation, prevent collisions, or deorbit at mission end, is on track for significant expansion over the coming decade. Stratview Research projects that the market will grow from $3.08 billion in 2024 to $7.82 billion by 2032, achieving a CAGR of 12.3 % during the forecast period (2025-2032). The single most important growth driver is the expansion in satellite launches for communication and Earth observation services, as the proliferation of satellites-which require reliable and efficient propulsion for accurate orbital placement and station-keeping-boosts demand across commercial, government, and defense sectors. The electric propulsion segment is expected to be the fastest-growing segment through 2032, propelled by its efficiency, extended mission durations, and lower propellant requirements compared to chemical systems. As satellite platforms-particularly small and medium satellites-prioritize weight and performance, manufacturers and developers are increasingly investing in electric propulsion technologies that support longer operational life and reduced mission costs. Market drivers include an increasing number of satellite launches for communication and Earth observation services; the rising adoption of efficient electric propulsion systems for extended mission life and reduced propellant needs, and; growth in commercial space activities driving demand for satellite propulsion innovations. -0- A stark divide is reshaping the space industry—and it comes down to a decision made back in late 2022. In Depth this week, the industry split between adaptive commercial operators and constrained government programs. (Paywall) When pandemic-era supply shortages hit satellite manufacturers, they faced a choice: wait for supply chains to recover, or rebuild them from scratch. Four years later, the companies that chose to rebuild are deploying satellite constellations on schedule. The ones that waited? They’re still waiting. This isn’t just about pandemic recovery. An analysis published this week shows the space industry has fundamentally restructured into two tiers—where organizational agility matters more than component availability for well-funded operators, while material constraints continue to strangle everyone else. Back in mid-2022, the crisis was severe. Semiconductor lead times stretched to 40 to 52 weeks—triple the pre-pandemic baseline. Optical terminals for satellites required 18 months. Radiation-hardened processors? Also 18 months. As one production manager told Via Satellite: “After COVID, there are no more miracles.” Fast forward to 2026, and some constraints have actually worsened. Rare earth elements, critical for satellite control systems, still face 12 to 18 month delays. China controls up to 93 percent of global rare earth processing. Heat pipe manufacturers can produce 200 to 300 units annually, but constellation demand sits at 600 to 1,000 units. The math simply doesn’t work. So how are some companies succeeding? Vertical integration. SpaceX, for example, now manufactures roughly 85 percent of its components in-house—from engines to satellite systems. The result? 62 Starlink launches in just the first half of 2025. But this strategy requires

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  4. 2월 1일

    First Deorbit-as-a-Service Contract Awarded to Starfish Space

    The U.S. Space Force Space Development Agency (SDA) has awarded a $52.5 million contract to Starfish Space to provide Deorbit-as-a-Service (DaaS) for satellites within the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). The award is the first such contracted mission for end-of-life satellite disposal service for any provider. Under the contract, Starfish Space will build, launch, and operate an Otter spacecraft in low Earth orbit (LEO) to safely and efficiently dispose of SDA satellites at the end of their operational lives. The mission begins with an initial deorbit, with options for multiple additional deorbits, enabled by Otter’s significant capacity and ability to service several satellites in a single mission. As LEO constellations continue to expand and require refresh cycles, operators must put more emphasis on managing end-of-life disposal safely, reliably, and at scale. Until now, operators have only had two options for managing end-of-life: actively deorbit satellites prematurely to mitigate risk of early failure and resulting operational hazards, or fly satellites for longer and contend with increasing debris and collision risks across their constellation. With Deorbit-as-a-Service, operators have a better alternative: maximize the operational life and value of their constellations and rely on vendors to dispose of any satellites which cannot dispose of themselves. The mission, which is targeting a 2027 launch date, will demonstrate how commercial Deorbit-as-a-Service can support both government and commercial constellation operators, maximizing the value and capabilities LEO operators can derive from their constellations as they continue to scale. ### In a related development, the European Space Agency (ESA) has awarded a contract valued at more than $475,000 to Astroscale UK to lead the design of the In-Orbit Refurbishment and Upgrading Service (IRUS). The novel mission concept is designed to lead to technology that will enable satellites to be upgraded, repaired, and extended while in orbit. This initiative supports ESA’s Space Safety Program, reinforcing Europe’s commitment to reducing orbital risks and ensuring safe operations for future generations. With the involvement of the spacecraft manufacturer and operator BAE Systems in the role of a future in-orbit servicing client, IRUS represents a major step towards a circular space economy, where satellites are maintained, repaired and enhanced in orbit rather than treated as single-use. Developing this new capability will pave the way for more complex In-Orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing (ISAM) capabilities – as refurbishment and upgrading are essential precursors to assembling and manufacturing platforms in space. The eight-month Phase A study contract will develop the technical groundwork and commercial case for in-orbit refurbishment and upgrading services. The team will explore how robotic and servicing technologies can safely connect with and refurbish satellites already in orbit, assessing the technical feasibility and commercial viability of upgrading a satellite or extending its life through replacing degraded or out-of-date subsystems such as batteries, solar panels and on-board computers. ### The Optical (laser) Satellite Communication Market is projected to grow from $620 million in 2025 to $1.56 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 20.4%, according to a new report from MarketsandMarkets. The market is growing steadily, driven by a growing need for secure, high-capacity data links across space missions, defense applications, and commercial satellite networks. Improvements in laser terminal pointing and tracking systems, along with AI-based link management, are making these systems more reliable and easier to operate. The demand is rising for high-capacity inter-satellite links, secure data transmission, and low-latency connectivity across LEO and multi-orbit satellite constellations. The optical (laser) satellite communication market is driven by the need for high-throughput and secure data links to support growing satellite data traffic. There is an increase in the adoption of laser inter-satellite links in LEO constellations, and demand for low-latency connectivity across defense and commercial missions is a key growth factor. By component, the Pointing, Acquisition, and Tracking (PAT) module segment is projected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period. By application, the network backbone and relay communications segment is expected to see the highest growth, driven by the use of optical intersatellite links to build space-based mesh networks that reduce dependence on ground stations. North American accounted for a 67.9% market revenue share in 2024. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to be the fastest-growing region during the forecast period. ### A milestone year has been reported by Astra, showing $45 million in revenue for 2025, breakeven EBITDA and 100% satellite engine mission reliability. The company says it has shipped 110 satellite engine systems in the past calendar year, surpassing a key operating milestone set when the company went private in 2024. Astra shipped the 110 systems with a team of approximately 100 employees, reflecting operating leverage driven by tighter process gating, increased automation, and execution discipline across manufacturing, test, and their supply chain. All systems are designed, manufactured, and tested at Astra’s Alameda, California facility. A series F funding round coming in at just under $130 million has been closed by Interstellar Technologies through a third-party allotment of new shares. The round was completed with the investments from SBI Group, Nomura Real Estate Development, B Dash Venture, SMBC Edge, and existing shareholders, in addition to the previously announced investors, and represents one of the largest fundraising efforts to date by a privately held space startup in Japan. The round, led by Woven by Toyota, raised $95.5 million through a third-party allotment of preferred shares in an up-round. In addition, the company secured just over $34.2 million in debt financing from financial institutions, including loan facilities with stock acquisition rights provided by the Japan Finance Corporation. Alongside the fundraising, secondary transactions with existing shareholders were also conducted to optimize the company’s capital structure. Nomura Securities provided advisory support in this series, including the introduction of several potential investors, some of which resulted in fundraising. The funds raised in this round will be used primarily for the development of first ZERO orbital launch vehicle, strengthening the manufacturing system toward future commercialization, and the research and development of satellites, thereby driving further expansion of both businesses. ### Launch timing for the BlueBird 7 mission has been announced by AST SpaceMobile. The launch is currently scheduled for late February from Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Blue Origin’s New Glenn launch vehicle. Identical to BlueBird 6, BlueBird 7 is the second satellite in AST SpaceMobile’s next-generation campaign. At nearly 2,400 square feet, it features the largest commercial communications array in low Earth orbit, 3.5 times larger than BlueBirds 1-5. Its size and design, built on significant technical innovation and supported by more than 3,800 patent and patent-pending claims, enable peak data rates of up to 120 Mbps space-based broadband connectivity for voice, data, and streaming. The next generation BlueBirds are designed to be compatible with all major launch vehicles. Future missions on New Glenn are expected to deliver up to 8 next generation BlueBirds per flight, with its seven-meter fairing enabling twice the payload volume of five-meter class commercial launch systems. ### In depth this week, the satellite industry faced a supply chain nightmare in 2022, with critical components like optical communication terminals and radiation-hardened processors backordered for 18 months. Industry analysts predicted widespread deployment delays that would cripple the booming constellation business. But those delays never materialized—at least not for commercial operators. (Paywall) According to industry data, constellation operators achieved 94% of their planned launch targets despite the crisis. SpaceX launched 96 missions in 2023 alone, more than all other launch providers worldwide combined. OneWeb finished deploying its 648-satellite constellation on schedule by 2023. The secret? Commercial operators rebuilt their supply chains from scratch rather than waiting for global markets to recover. Companies like SpaceX doubled down on vertical integration, manufacturing critical components in-house at their Redmond, Washington facility—a strategy industry veterans initially dismissed as inefficient. The approach created what one analysis calls “a parallel manufacturing economy” built on three pillars: making components internally, stockpiling critical parts, and simplifying satellite designs to reduce dependencies. The strategy worked. While component shortages were real—German optical terminal maker Mynaric nearly went bankrupt before being acquired—commercial operators maintained their production pace through manufacturing flexibility unavailable to competitors. The exception highlights the rule: The Space Development Agency, bound by government procurement regulations, experienced exactly the delays commercial operators avoided on their Tranche 1 satellite constellation. Industry observers say these manufacturing changes aren’t temporary fixes but represent a permanent shift in constellation economics, widening the gap between operators controlling their own production and those relying on traditional supply chains. Paid subscribers can read the full analysis on The Journal of Space Commerce under the S

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  5. 1월 25일

    A Congressional Call for a Strong Space Economy

    Bipartisan legislation to provide regulatory predictability to the satellite industry, boost high-speed Internet access, and ensure American space leadership has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Senator Peter Welch (D-VT). The SAT Streamlining Act establishes a clear, one-year deadline for the FCC to make a decision on a license application. These changes would help expand broadband access to underserved areas, and incentivize commercial satellite operators to base operations in the United States over foreign jurisdictions where satellite application processes may be less burdensome. The legislation also standardizes “market access” for foreign satellite systems operating in the United States by capping licenses at 15 years, aligning them with the 15-year approval term applied to U.S. companies. The legislation establishes strict deadlines for the FCC to act on applications. The agency would have one year to approve or deny applications for satellite licenses, including those for geostationary and non-geostationary orbit space stations and earth stations. If the FCC misses these deadlines, applications would be automatically approved. For license renewals, the FCC would have 180 days to make decisions. Minor technical modifications to licenses would need to be processed within 90 days, while certain equipment replacement requests would get expedited 30-day reviews. Tom Stoup is the president of the Satellite Industry Association. He says the industry will benefit greatly from a standardized process. “Members of Congress realize that the industry has grown so rapidly that we need to find ways to be able to expedite the licensing process. And I think in a nutshell, that’s really it,” Stroup said. “I mean, it’s just like The FCC has done a great job of dealing with some of the backlog and applications. And there’s a proceeding at the FCC on creating a new set of rules with their modernization proceeding. And I think, again, it all ties into a recognition of the growth in the industry and the importance of the national economy.” The bill emphasizes that the U.S. space industry is vital for the economy and job creation. It aims to ensure America maintains global leadership in commercial space by modernizing regulatory processes to keep pace with industry innovation. -0- A new demonstrator called Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN (Space Radio Access Network) has been launched into orbit. Its mission is to enable standardized global connectivity by exploring advanced 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) capabilities. This demonstrator aims to explore the 5G NTN, a versatile connectivity technology compatible with all types of business applications. The demonstration will confirm the feasibility of providing universal connectivity that is standardized, interoperable, and globally available for commercial, defence or governmental use. Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN will leverage Airbus’ software-defined satellite 1 capabilities to manage and optimize 5G signals in orbit. By processing data directly in space rather than simply relaying it, the demonstrator 2 will prove that we can reduce latency, maximize data throughput, and enable more efficient network management and routing, opening the door to user-to-user direct connectivity. Developed as part of Air!5G, a project supported by the French government through the France 2030 investment plan under the Future Networks strategy, this demonstrator is expected to show its first results by 2028. -0- In anticipation of its Initial Public Offering, York Space Systems has launched the roadshow for the IPO of 16,000,000 shares of its common stock. In addition, York intends to grant the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 2,400,000 shares of its common stock at the initial public offering price, less underwriting discounts and commissions. The initial public offering price is expected to be between $30 and $34 per share. York has applied to list its common stock on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “YSS.” A registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission but has not yet become effective. These securities may not be sold nor may offers to buy be accepted prior to the time the registration statement becomes effective. The Journal of Space Commerce is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. The first Rocket Lab launch of 2026 successfully lifted two spacecraft into orbit for European space technology company, Open Cosmos. That’s Murielle Baker is the Director of Corporate and Launch Communications at Rocket Lab. “On board Electron today are two small sats by Open Cosmos that are heading to a 1,050 kilometer low Earth orbit at an 89 degree inclination. The pair will verify new capabilities that Open Cosmos is developing, and it is the first time flying on Electron for the Open Cosmos team. The mission ‘The Cosmos Will See You Now’ lifted off from Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand at 11:52 p.m. local time on January 22. The two spacecraft were deployed into an ≈652 mile low Earth orbit. It was the company’s 80th electron launch overall. The story was a bit different at Launch Complex 3 in Wallops Island, Virginia however. Rocket Lab released a statement saying that qualification testing of the Stage 1 tank for its larger Neutron rocket Wednesday night resulted in a rupture during a hydrostatic pressure trial. The company stressed that testing failures are not uncommon during qualification testing, and that structures are intentionally stressed to their limits to validate structural integrity and safety margins and ensure the robust requirements for a successful launch can be comfortably met. The Company intends to provide an update on the Neutron schedule during its 2025 Q4 earnings call in February. -0- Integration has begun on the Vast Haven-1 commercial space station. Scheduled to be the world’s first private space station, Haven-1 is designed as a standalone, crewed station and serves as the first step for Haven-2, a multi-module station capable of supporting a continuous human presence in low-Earth orbit (LEO) that is Vast’s proposed successor to the ISS. The first phase of Haven-1 integration includes installation of the station’s pressurized fluid systems, including thermal control, life support, and propulsion system tubes, and component trays and tanks. These systems will undergo pressure, leak, and functional testing. The second phase of integration will incorporate avionics, guidance, navigation and control systems, and air revitalization hardware. The third and final phase will complete the vehicle with crew habitation and interior closeouts, exterior micrometeoroid and orbital debris (MMOD) shielding, thermal radiator installation, and solar array integration, bringing Haven-1 to a fully flight-ready configuration. Based on the current integration timeline, Vast is updating its schedule for Haven-1 to be ready to launch Q1 2027. -0- The polar region satellite communications industry is on the verge of significant expansion, driven by increasing technological advancements and growing needs for connectivity in extreme environments. According to new analysis from The Business Research Company, as demand intensifies for robust communication systems in the Arctic and Antarctic, the market is set to experience remarkable growth in the coming years. The polar region satellite communications market is anticipated to reach a value of $4.25 billion by 2030, showcasing a strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.3%. This surge is largely fueled by the deployment of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations specifically focused on polar coverage, integration with Arctic navigation and surveillance systems, and the increasing use of AI-powered communication optimization technologies. Additionally, expanding activities in polar resource exploration and a growing reliance on emergency and disaster communication services further contribute to this robust growth. Key trends expected to shape the market include the expansion of LEO constellations to enhance polar communication, rising demand for resilient systems to support Arctic shipping, increasing scientific research requiring high-bandwidth data transmission, widespread adoption of portable satellite terminals for fieldwork, and advancements in high-frequency Ka- and Ku-band solutions designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. One critical driver of market expansion is the rollout of low-earth orbit satellite constellations tailored for polar regions. These constellations improve connectivity and coverage in remote areas, supporting a variety of applications from scientific missions to commercial operations. -0- In depth this week, Congress has handed NASA its biggest budget in nearly three decades, and with it, a clear mandate: put commercial space companies at the center of America’s future in orbit and on the Moon. (Paywall) On January 15, lawmakers approved a $27.5 billion package for NASA for fiscal year 2026, combining traditional appropriations with a special reconciliation bill. The move reverses a proposed 24 percent cut from the Trump administration and instead boosts funding for exploration systems, science, and new commercial space stations in low Earth orbit. It also cements a bipartisan deal that treats commercial partnerships not as experiments, but as national infrastructure. At the heart of the shift is a new role for NASA as an “anchor customer” rather than the builder and operator of its own spacecraft and stations. Reauthorization language led by Senators Maria Cantwell and Ted Cruz instructs the agency to use commercial capabilities “as appropriate and practicable” for lunar missions, cargo runs, and low Earth orb

    16분

  6. 1월 18일

    SkyFi Secures $12.7 Million Series A Funding

    AI-first Earth intelligence platform SkyFi has announced that it has raised $12.7 million in an oversubscribed Series A funding round. The round was co-led by Buoyant Ventures and IronGate Capital Advisors. This investment will accelerate product development and enhance SkyFi’s technology, including its platform’s user interface and analytical tools. Additionally, the company plans to forge new partnerships with satellite operators to expand its on-demand data offerings and AI-enabled analytic capabilities for leading commercial and government customers worldwide. Kirk Konert, managing partner at AE Industrial Partners, explains what “Series A” is, and what comes next. “Series A is; you’ve actually sold your product, now you need the money to actually go make that product or software. Series B is; you’ve taken that next step and have won a significant contract. Now you need help scaling from a prototype to a full manufacturing product. And then Series C; now you have multiple products you need to make. Now you need growth capital.” SkyFi’s growing network of more than 50 geospatial imagery partners currently provides optical, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), hyperspectral, and aerial imagery, as well as data analytics, to industries including defense, energy, finance, infrastructure and construction, environmental services, agriculture, insurance, and mining. -0- Intuitive Machines has completed its acquisition of Lanteris Space Systems (“Lanteris”), formerly Maxar Space Systems. The acquisition, first announced in November 2025, was completed for $800 million before closing adjustments, consisting of $450 million in cash and $350 million in Intuitive Machines Class A common stock. Lanteris’ Low Earth Orbit, Medium Earth Orbit and geostationary satellites support missile warning and tracking, tactical intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, Earth observation, and space domain awareness. The acquisition aligns with the Intuitive Machines vision, strengthening the company’s position as a vertically integrated next generation space prime that is able to build, connect, and operate end-to-end mission solutions unique to the marketplace today. -0- A couple of notable market reports were released this week, both from MarketsandMarkets. The reporting company noted that the Small Satellite Market is projected to grow from $9.35 billion in 2025 to $32.13 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 28.0%. Increased demand for affordable space missions, more frequent launches, and expanded use in communications, Earth observation, and defense applications are all expected to contribute to the upswing. One major factor is the expansion of LEO constellations for broadband and Earth observation. Increased government use of small satellites for ISR, PNT, and tactical communications is creating steady institutional demand. Additionally, falling manufacturing and launch costs are enabling shorter replacement cycles and more frequent satellite launches. The rising need for high-revisit data in downstream applications is further boosting the adoption of large, scalable small satellite constellations. The fastest-growing segment in the small satellite market is the commercial sector, as more companies are using satellites for data and revenue-generating services. Commercial satellite operators, telecom firms, and service providers are deploying small satellite constellations to provide broadband connectivity, high-resolution Earth imagery, and continuous monitoring. A subset of that market, the Earth Observation Small Satellite Market is projected to grow from $2.64 billion in 2025 to $5.52 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 15.9%. The increasing need for high-frequency Earth observation data drives the EO small satellite market. This data supports planning across defense, environmental management, and commercial analytics. The 222-2,650 pound mini satellite segment is expected to account for the largest market share in the EO small satellite market during the forecast period. The satellite bus segment is projected to account for the largest market share in the EO small satellite industry during the forecast period. The growth is driven by the increasing demand for modular, reliable, and power-efficient bus platforms. The FCC has granted a major authorization to Space Exploration Holdings to advance its second-generation Starlink satellite system, marking a significant milestone in global broadband connectivity. Under this grant, SpaceX is authorized to construct, deploy, and operate an additional 7,500 Gen2 Starlink satellites, bringing the total to 15,000 satellites worldwide. This expansion will enable SpaceX to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet service globally, including enhanced mobile and supplemental coverage from space. The FCC’s decision benefited in particular from the work and collaboration provided by the Commerce Department and NTIA. The FCC’s decision allows SpaceX to upgrade the Gen2 Starlink satellites with advanced form factors and cutting-edge technology; waive obsolete requirements that prevented overlapping beam coverage and enhanced capacity; add new orbital shells at altitudes ranging from 211 to about 300 miles, optimizing coverage and performance; and provide direct-to-cell connectivity outside the United States and supplemental coverage within the U.S., paving the way for next-generation mobile services. -0- Eutelsat, meanwhile, has awarded a contract to Airbus to build an additional 340 OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Together with the previous batch of 100 satellites procured in December 2024, the total number of satellites ordered is up to 440. The satellites will be manufactured at Airbus Defense and Space’s Toulouse facility on a newly installed production line, with delivery beginning at the end of 2026. Eutelsat’s OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network delivers high-speed, low-latency connectivity on a global basis. The availability of these latest satellites will assure full operational continuity for customers of the constellation, progressively replacing early batches coming to end of operational life. Additionally, they will integrate technology upgrades including advanced digital channelizers, enabling enhanced onboard processing capabilities as well as greater efficiency and flexibility. -0- A key milestone for future human spaceflight has been reached with the successful completion of shock and vibration tests on advanced, gravity-independent fuel cell technology developed by Nimbus Power Systems. The tests simulated the anticipated mechanical loads, including launch, for NASA’s upcoming Artemis crewed missions to the Moon. The fuel cell met all performance targets throughout the tests, demonstrating the system’s structural and operational readiness for future flight integration. Fuel cells react oxygen and hydrogen to produce electricity, heat, and potable water, three vital resources for crewed space operations. Nimbus’ innovative water management technology removes product water via a combination of capillary and hydraulic forces that are uncompromised by the space environment. Blue Origin currently licenses Nimbus Power System’s fuel cell technology for its Blue Moon Lunar Lander program and other space applications. -0- In-Depth this week, CEOs are rewriting the rules of supply chains in an era defined not by efficiency, but by endurance. (Paywall) Over the last decade, pandemics, geopolitical conflicts, cyber‑attacks, climate disruptions, and inflation have exposed the fragility of global supply systems—built for efficiency, not resilience. The result? Shipping delays, material shortages, and data breaches are now the norm. Today’s leaders must think like engineers of continuity—not just maintainers of convenience. That means mapping vulnerabilities throughout the network and planning for “five disruptions from now,” not just the next quarter. Africa is at the center of this shift. With 1.4 billion people and a young workforce, the continent has massive growth potential. But logistics inefficiencies add nearly 40% to the cost of doing business in parts of Africa. The African Continental Free Trade Area—AfCFTA—could boost intra‑continental trade from about 15% to over 50% by 2035, if countries invest in connectivity. At the heart of this transformation is technology. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, and IoT sensors are now tracking goods with surgical precision. But integration is key—automating outdated processes only speeds up failure. Sustainability also matters. Supply chains contribute significantly to global carbon emissions, and for African firms, “green logistics” is becoming essential for accessing both climate finance and market opportunities. * A new playbook for executives includes: * Mapping dependencies and failure points; * Digitizing operations with clear goals; * Diversifying sourcing geographically; * Embedding sustainability into performance metrics; * Building agile, culturally aware teams; * Partnering with governments to modernize trade infrastructure. Supply chains, often called the circulatory system of modern civilization, are now the crucible of corporate leadership. For CEOs, success means not just moving goods, but connecting markets, people, and ideas—fortifying resilience for the next generation of global challenges. Paid subscribers can read the full analysis on The Journal of Space Commerce under the Supply Chain tab. Other premium articles include a look at export controls and Space Commerce; factors contributing to the costs of small satellites; and how space insurance brokers assess risk. Worth a Second Look * Mitsubishi Corporation Joins Starlab as Major Space Station Customer * Robotic Lunar Mission Focused on Recovery of Helium-3 for Fusion Energy * The Dawn of the Aurora Spaceplane Era * Redwire Sunsets Edge Autonomy Brand * Spacecraft for the First Th

    13분

  7. 1월 11일

    Returning a Legacy Name to Space Commerce

    Private investment firm AE Industrial Partners has signed a definitive agreement to acquire a controlling interest in the Space Propulsion and Power Systems business of L3Harris Technologies. The transaction encompasses business units across five locations in the U.S., which have developed the upper-stage rocket engines used in national security, civil and commercial missions for more than 60 years, as well as in-space propulsion, nuclear power and avionics assets. L3Harris will retain a minority investment interest and continue to act as a strategic partner to the business. AE Industrial plans to restore and use the “Rocketdyne” name for the acquired business in recognition of its heritage and longstanding innovation within space propulsion technology. AE Industrial Partners Managing Partner Kirk Konert said that in addition to restoring a legacy name to the commercial space industry, the acquisition is part of a new paradigm following a round of company consolidations over the past few decades. “And now what we’re seeing is a kind of de-consolidation and new entrants being introduced into the market, and this is part of that theme in a new way, “Konert said. “Where L3, a prime, has been part of that consolidation over the past couple of decades is now partnering with a specialized investor such as AE Industrial to re-invigorate and stand alone a new platform in Rocketdyne which includes some of the key workhorses of propulsion for our space and national security programs here in the U.S.” The partnership between AE Industrial and L3Harris will also aim to help accelerate the development of future propulsion technologies, including nuclear propulsion, which will be critical to the exploration of Mars and the cislunar domain. We’ll hear more about AE Industrial later in the program. -0- The U.S. Space Development Agency (SDA) has named Rocket Lab as the prime contractor tasked with the design and manufacture of 18 satellites for the Tracking Layer Tranche 3 (TRKT3) program under the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). The award, valued at $816 million, is the company’s largest single contract to date. Under the contract Rocket Lab will deliver satellites equipped with advanced missile warning, tracking, and defense sensors to provide global, persistent detection and tracking of emerging missile threats, including hypersonic systems. The award includes an $806 million base contract plus up to $10.45 million in options. Each satellite will feature Rocket Lab’s next-generation Phoenix infrared sensor payload, a wide field-of-view (WFOV) solution designed to meet the evolving missile defense needs of national security in space. To ensure mission resilience, the satellites will be equipped with Rocket Lab’s advanced StarLite space protection sensors, designed to safeguard the constellation against directed energy threats. Notably, StarLite sensors have also been adopted by other prime contractors developing TRKT3 satellites, further expanding Rocket Lab’s role in the program Rocket Lab’s satellites will be built on its proven Lightning platform, leveraging the company’s vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities to deliver an unmatched combination of speed, cost efficiency, and quality. All major components – from solar arrays, reaction wheels and star trackers to propulsion systems, avionics, payloads, and launch dispensers – are designed and produced in-house. Rocket Lab’s growing role as a prime contractor for the U.S. Space Force highlights its emergence as a formidable competitor to legacy aerospace primes. -0- The global satellite communication market, which was valued at $25.2 billion last year, is expected to grow from $27.6 billion this year to $47.6 billion in 2031 and $83 billion in 2035, at a CAGR of 13% during the forecast period. That’s according to a new report published by Global Market Insights. The expansion of demand for internet connectivity, development of small satellite constellations to enhance communications, demand for remote area connectivity, increased demand for IoT & M2M Connectivity, and the integration of 5G with existing infrastructure and new technologies are several factors that propel satellite communications market growth. The growing demand for reliable internet depends on satellite communications expanding into underserved areas. Programs Like NTIA’s Internet for All project highlight the need for equitable access to broadband. For example, in rural areas, over 72% of tribal broadband connectivity program funds were awarded to rural areas, which is why satellite communications is important to provide high-speed communications to areas where terrestrial infrastructure is not available. The analysts found that the rapid expansion of satellite constellations is a key trend in the SATCOM market, as demand for worldwide high-speed broadband is a key factor driving this growth. The Journal of Space Commerce is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support this work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. A partnership that could result in the first in-space advanced materials manufacturing facility for the manufacture of semiconductors has been announced by United Semiconductors and Aegis Aerospace. The collaboration follows Aegis Aerospace’s recent grant agreement with the Texas Space Commission to develop an in-space manufacturing platform for advanced materials in low Earth orbit. The Aegis Advanced Materials Manufacturing Platform (AMMP) aims to showcase the unique properties and manufacturing capabilities afforded by the microgravity environment of LEO. By leveraging United Semiconductors’ established expertise as a provider to the U.S. Department of War, this partnership will expedite the commercialization of semiconductor manufacturing in space. As a result, Aegis Aerospace anticipates creating new job opportunities in Texas and offering this innovative service globally. Together, Aegis Aerospace’s AMMP and United Semiconductors products are believed to be the first dedicated commercial facility for in-space materials production. -0- On our most recent edition of The Journal of Space Commerce podcast, Tom Patton talked with Kirk Konert, Managing Partner of AE Industrial Partners, a private investment firm focused on technologies and services considered critical to aerospace and national and economic security. The company was founded in 1998 by father-son team Brian and David Rowe, and currently manages $7.2 billion in assets from their headquarters in Boca Raton, FL. AE Industrial Partners supports multiple verticals in the commercial space sector, with several companies involved in the space supply chain. Company co-founder Brian Rowe came from GE Aviation, and the company still is interested in things that fly, and things that make things fly. The company has also invested in such firms as Firefly Aerospace, York Space Systems, Redwire and others. In fact, Konert said that AEI has been the most active private investment firm in space over the past several years. “We believe space has been at an inflection point in industrialization, where it’s become a key part of our economy and infrastructure for driving our economy globally. And without space as a backbone of that infrastructure our modern day economy sort of collapses at this point.” The company says it makes investments to positively impact its target markets, portfolio companies and the communities within which they operate. Each investment has unique characteristics which requires a flexible approach to meet the needs of all stakeholders. -0- In depth this week (paywall), Jared Isaacman was confirmed December 17th as NASA Administrator, and the next day, President Trump issued an executive order dissolving the National Space Council and mandating Americans return to the Moon by 2028. That timing wasn’t accidental. Together, these moves signal a coordinated restructuring of American space policy, shifting power from traditional aerospace contractors toward commercial providers and fundamentally rewriting the rules for who profits from space exploration. Before confirmation hearings even began, a 62-page document titled “Project Athena” leaked to Politico, revealing Isaacman’s vision in remarkably blunt terms. The plan sorts NASA programs into three categories: accelerate, fix, or delete. That last category has congressional offices scrambling. Project Athena pulls no punches on legacy programs. The Space Launch System—NASA’s heavy-lift rocket that has cost approximately $24 billion in development and flown once—would terminate after Artemis III and potentially Artemis IV. The lunar Gateway space station, consuming years of international partnership development, would be canceled entirely. In their place, Isaacman proposes accelerating commercial lunar landers and focusing deep-space ambitions on Mars missions powered by nuclear electric propulsion. And the plan reserves particularly sharp criticism for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, calling its cost-plus contract structure “outdated” and suggesting JPL should compete like any other contractor rather than receive directed funding. Beyond program cuts, Project Athena targets NASA’s organizational structure. The plan proposes consolidating mission control operations at Johnson Space Center in Houston, potentially stripping responsibilities from other centers. It calls for comprehensive reviews of center “modernization”—language that typically precedes workforce reductions and facility closures. Isaacman’s vision isn’t just about changing which rockets NASA flies; it restructures how the agency operates, shifting from in-house development toward contract oversight. Our in-depth report looks at the ramifications for the commercial space industry given Isaacman’s vision for NASA, and the impacts of Trump’s most recent executive order rela

    15분

  8. 2025. 12. 21.

    Jared Isaacman is the New Administrator at NASA

    Entrepreneur Jarad Isaacman has been confirmed as the next Administrator of NASA. The U.S. Senate on Wednesday voted 67-30 in favor of the nomination. Isaacman was first nominated for the job by President Donald Trump in December, 2024, and he appeared to be headed for an easy confirmation. But that was derailed when the nomination was abruptly withdrawn in late May while the confirmation process was underway. Trump re-nominated Isaacman in November, and facing little if any opposition in the Senate, his confirmation is now official. -0- The Florida state budget for FY26 proposed by Governor Ron DeSantis underscores his stated commitment to strengthening Florida’s aerospace sector as it enters a new era of growth. The Governor’s FY26 budget recommendations for Space Florida include $17.5 million in the operating budget and a total of $21 million for strategic, substantive aerospace project investments. Space Florida is a public corporation and innovation connector created by the legislature to facilitate creative financing options and infrastructure access to space companies to the state. The Governor’s budget recommendations for FY26 include investments designed to accelerate industry advancement, modernize and expand space transportation infrastructure, and ensure Florida remains competitive in an increasingly dynamic global space marketplace. In addition to providing over $93 million through the FDOT Spaceport Improvement Program, the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget recommends $10 million to engage the Aerospace Investment Fund in maximizing growth in Florida’s statewide space strategy alongside commercial investments. The space industry in Florida generates more than $9 billion in economic impact potential across all private sector aerospace projects. The state legislature must approve the budget during its annual session early next year, and all of that funding is not guaranteed to make it through the legislative process. -0- Speaking of Space Florida, the agency, in conjunction with Seraphim Space, has launched the SpaceTech Investor Readiness Program, a partnership designed to accelerate innovation and investment across Florida’s growing SpaceTech ecosystem. Seraphim has a portfolio of 148 companies across 32 countries, including five unicorns, that have collectively raised over $8.2 billion in funding. Seraphim and Space Florida will help connect Florida-based startups with investors and key partners to drive growth and investment readiness. The pilot program brings experienced investors together with seven high-potential Florida-based SpaceTech startups, helping them become investment-ready, while connecting them to Seraphim’s global investor network, strategic corporate partners, and the broader Florida space ecosystem. The program also educates local investors on opportunities within the state’s growing SpaceTech sector. The pilot will culminate with a showcase at SpaceCom Orlando in January, highlighting the companies and the program’s impact on Florida’s innovation landscape. -0- When Rocket Lab launched the “Raise and Shine” mission December 15, it carried a demonstration of orbital debris mitigation technology developed by Axelspace. D-SAIL is a deorbiting device designed to shorten the time a satellite remains in orbit after the termination of its operation. The demonstration is part of a JAXA program named ‘Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration-4’. The D-SAIL demonstration on the RApid Innovative payload demonstration SatellitE-4 (RAISE-4) mission is scheduled to begin in late 2026, about a year after launch. This will mark the first time that D-SAIL is operated in orbit. The D-SAIL membrane deploys to increase atmospheric drag, gradually reducing the satellite’s altitude and eventually causing the spacecraft to enter the atmosphere. This year, the FCC enacted rules requiring operators to dispose of their LEO satellites within five years of completing their missions, in a effort to mitigate the accumulation of space debris. The Journal of Space Commerce is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support this effort, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. The Global Space Power Supply Market was valued at $3.3 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow to $7.3 billion by 2034 at a CAGR of 8.2%, according to a new report from Global Market Insights. The market growth is propelled by increasing satellite launches, improvements in photovoltaic technologies, rising demand for CubeSats and small satellites, and the growing push toward sustainability. The acceleration of commercial missions and the demand for efficient power systems to support various types of satellite operations continue to create long-term opportunities. Rapid satellite deployment, especially in the form of large constellations for communication, earth monitoring, and navigation applications, adds to the demand. North America leads the global landscape due to its advanced aerospace ecosystem, substantial funding support, cutting-edge research investments, and early adoption of AI in national defense infrastructure. The market is also gaining from strategic collaborations between public agencies and private space technology developers. The low power segment accounted for $939.8 million in 2024. This category thrives due to its compatibility with compact satellites and short-term missions. The solar power systems segment reached $2 billion in 2024. This growth is linked to the rising use of clean energy sources, maturing photovoltaic technologies, and the advantage of uninterrupted solar exposure in space. -0- Investments in three frontier technology companies that are positioned at the center of what could be a fundamental shift in how America builds, powers, and operates critical infrastructure beyond Earth’s surface have been announced by Balerion Space Ventures. The investments in Antares Industries, Samara Aerospace, and Valar Atomics signal the intensifying convergence of space, defense, and industrial-scale energy systems, sectors that are increasingly recognized as foundational to U.S. competitiveness and national security. Balerion’s investment will support product development, facility expansion, and key commercial milestone achievements as each company deepens engagement with defense, civil, and commercial customers. -0- Imagine this: When SpaceX launched the Transporter-15 mission, it carried 140 payloads from over 30 customers in 16 countries onto a single Falcon 9. Some satellites even hosted payloads from other companies. It’s rideshares carrying rideshares—sharing all the way down. In depth this week: Welcome to the sharing economy in space (paywall). The old model—build your own satellite, buy your own launch, and operate your own ground stations—is quietly dying. The hosted payload market reached $2.1 billion in 2024, and is projected to hit $6.8 billion by 2033. Mega-constellations are rapidly expanding, and are forecast to account for $4.27 billion toward $27.3 billion in market share by 2032. The economics are simple. Why pay $50 to $150 million for a dedicated launch when you can rideshare a 440-pound satellite for a few million? Why build global ground networks when Leaf Space, KSAT, or Atlas sell contact time by the minute? And why design custom buses when EnduroSat or K2 Space offer standardized platforms? SpaceX’s Transporter program has launched over 1,000 smallsats since 2021. Transporter-15 showcased the maturity of the concept, deploying dozens of satellites, including CubeSats, tech demos, and orbital transfer vehicles, to custom orbits. Orbital tugs like D-Orbit’s ION and Momentus’ Vigoride solve rideshare’s big limit: everyone starts in the same orbit. They deliver satellites precisely, like catching an Uber after the bus. K2 Space’s Mega platforms raise massive payloads from LEO to MEO fast and efficiently. Ground Segment as a Service turns capex into opex—pay only for passes used, with reliable networks handling thousands monthly. The demand is only expected to continue to grow. SpaceX does launch its own satellites on its own rockets, and Rocket Lab builds both rockets and satellites. But that company also has a solid business case for dedicated and rideshare missions. But most operators of satellite constellations depend on commercial launch operators to carry their payloads to orbit. Many use SpaceX, Amazon Leo, previously Project Kuiper, is riding to orbit aboard ULA launch vehicles, and Blue Origin’s New Glenn reusable heavy lift rocket could also become a SpaceX competitor for rideshare missions. North America leads today, but Asia Pacific is catching up fast. By orbit, LEO dominates for lower latency and costs for applications like satellite-delivered Internet, as well as voice and video connectivity. Do tradeoffs exist? Of course they do. Booking a rideshare mission means less schedule control, orbital compromises without tugs, potential ground access constraints, and security risks for sensitive missions. Yet for most operators, sharing wins—slashing costs and accelerating access. It’s democratizing access to space, though increasing orbital congestion emphasizes the need for better traffic management. So, like software two decades ago, the satellite industry is embracing shared infrastructure for routine missions. Dedicated systems remain for the edges—but the future is shared. Paid subscribers can read the full analysis on The Journal of Space Commerce under the Market Insights tab. And while you’re there, check out our in-depth reports coming regulatory changes for the commercial space industry, and the future for orbital data centers. And that is Space Commerce Week for Sunday, December 21. We’ll be away for the Christmas and New Year’s break, but Space Commerce Week will return on January 11. Have a great holiday season. Worth a Second Look Wireless Power Receiver Added to Blue Ghost Moo

    13분
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