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87% of US Orbital Launches in 2024: Is SpaceX’s Dominance Under Threat?

In 2024, SpaceX commanded an impressive 87% of the US’s orbital launches, showcasing its near-monopoly in the space industry. The company has been a dominant force in NASA’s launch contracts since the mid-2010s and a significant Pentagon contractor. SpaceX has also become the preferred launch provider for commercial clients, successfully launching numerous satellites and five private crewed missions. Despite this dominance, competitors are emerging. Rocket Lab plans to challenge SpaceX’s Falcon 9 with its Neutron rocket, aiming for a first launch in late 2025. Blue Origin, owned by Jeff Bezos, recently completed its first mission with a rocket intended to rival SpaceX’s Starship. Other companies like Firefly, Relativity Space, and Stoke Space are also developing new rockets. Internationally, Europe’s Ariane 6 had its inaugural flight last year, while China is rapidly advancing with multiple commercial launch companies. Despite these developments, SpaceX’s lead remains strong, with over 130 Falcon 9 launches in the previous year and continued challenges for its competitors.

Source: www.technologyreview.com

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Tanvi Ratna @tanvi_ratna Β· Apr 1
SpaceX has single-handedly reclaimed American primacy in space.

Mario Nawfal @MarioNawfal Β· Feb 24
ELON: THE U.S. HAS TAKEN THE LEAD IN THE ROCKET BUSINESS THANKS TO SPACEX β€œThe United States has been uncompetitive in the international launch market for a long time. Russia has actually been the leader in that regard, followed by Europe and then, to a lesser degree, India

Tanvi Ratna @tanvi_ratna Β· Mar 21
. @SpaceX has single-handedly reclaimed America’s leadership in rocketry: