Global space investment reaches record $3.5 billion

In Short:
– Global space investment reached $3.5 billion in Q3 2025, nearly twice last year’s figure.
– Increased government spending and diverse startups are driving growth in the space sector.

Global space investment reached an unprecedented $3.5 billion in the third quarter of 2025, nearly double from $1.79 billion during the same period last year, as per a report by Seraphim Space.

The dramatic increase highlights a more diverse funding landscape where investments are distributed among a wider array of startups.”Historically, most of the capital in the sector was concentrated in just a couple of players, SpaceX and OneWeb,” stated Lucas Bishop, an investment associate at Seraphim Space.

“Now, we see a far more diverse set of investable companies, indicating space has evolved into a broader market.”

The substantial growth in space investment is largely driven by heightened government spending to support domestic space initiatives in the United States, China, and Europe.

Defence expenditure has become the leading investment catalyst, with the U.S. Space Force projected to receive $40 billion for fiscal year 2026.

Major Funding

China’s Galactic Energy secured the largest funding round, attracting $336 million in September for its Pallas series of reusable launchers.

In the U.S., defence technology firms such as Hadrian, Apex, and Hermeus were at the forefront of major investments.

Public space enterprises have also witnessed significant growth, with Rocket Lab and Planet Labs more than doubling in value.

AST SpaceMobile’s stock surged 306% in 2025, boosted by partnerships with major telecom operators like Verizon and AT&T.

Momentum is expected to persist into 2026 as satellite networks expand, and government procurement increases, paving the way for dual-use technologies in civilian and defence sectors.