The best launch space startups
32 launch companies in the directory, ranked by disclosed funding ($5.6B raised between them), spanning 10 countries.
The launch industry is one of the most exciting and dynamic industries in space, no small thanks to the massive part that SpaceX and others like it have played.
Now there are hundreds of launch startups across the world.
Below is a focused list of the hottest and most interesting startups focusing on getting humans into space.
SpaceX GraduatedReusable rockets and spacecraft
Blue Origin GraduatedOrbital rockets and spacecraft
Stoke Space The fully reusable Nova rocket
Gilmour Space Low-cost hybrid rockets
Rocket Lab GraduatedSmallsat launch services
Vector Launch Shut downAffordable space access
Astra GraduatedLow-cost orbital launches
Latitude Zephyr, the dedicated small launcher
Firefly Aerospace GraduatedSmall-satellite launchers
Maritime Launch Services GraduatedCommercial spaceport
Zero 2 Infinity Shut downBalloon-borne launchers
EXOS Aerospace Reusable suborbital space vehicles
Bagaveev Shut down3D printed rocket engines
Australia Space Launch DormantHelping launch down under
Black Arrow DormantHorizon sea launch service
Eclipse Orbital DormantAffordable cube-sat launch service
Exodus Space Corp DormantReusable horizontal space vehicles
i-Space Developing a commercial space shuttle
Interstellar Technologies ZERO, the biomethane launcher
Isar Aerospace Spectrum, Europe’s private orbital rocket
Leo Aerospace Shut downHigh altitude smallsat launcher
OneSpace DormantLaunch services for satellites and spacecraft
Orbex Shut downPrivate launch services
PLD Space Commercial launch services
Relativity Space 3D printed rockets
Rocket Factory Augsburg Small rockets, automotive-style production
ShipInSpace Shut downProvide access to space
Skyrora Building launch vehicles
Space OneJapan’s solid-fuel rocket venture
STAR Smallsat launch services
Stofiel Aerospace DormantSmallsat balloon launch service
World View Enterprises AcquiredStratospheric observation and launch services
How many launch space startups are there in 2026?
Space Bandits tracks 32 launch companies, 13 of them active, with $5.6B in disclosed funding between them. Every funding figure carries a source.
Which launch startup has raised the most?
SpaceX leads the launch sector with $2.9B in disclosed funding.
Follow launch startups
Founder interviews and the most promising space startups, straight to your inbox. Free, no spam, unsubscribe anytime.