The Smallsat Launch Vehicle Markets Shift from “Launcher Boom Era” to a Long-Term Sustainability Focus as Market Matures
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., June 18, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NSR’s Smallsat Launch Vehicle Markets, 2nd Edition report, released today, concludes the dedicated commercial small satellite launch market will see a rapid ramp-up period resulting in over $2.2B in revenue over the next 10 years, overcoming supply chain constraints, new technology risks, and solidifying its place in the market as a proven competitor.
While funding and enthusiasm continues to steadily increase, with twelve new dedicated smallsat launchers anticipating their first orbital launches by the end of 2020, the additional competition and market constraints will cause consolidation by no later than the mid-2020s. “NSR expects to see consolidation in the market in the form of M&As, or companies pivoting to other services or exclusive markets such as Military and Defense, or face shutdown,” writes Leena Pivovarova, NSR Analyst and report author.
Shifting mindsets also impact how the industry perceives small launch vehicle utility. Although, the larger mass category of dedicated smallsat launchers is ideal for smallsats being developed for mega-constellations, most of these satellites will not be launched on dedicated small launchers. For large scale mega-constellation deployments, heavier rockets with bigger payload capabilities will be utilized.
However, with rising popularity and success garnered by companies like Rocket Lab, emerging small launchers will continue to demand the spotlight. These small dedicated rockets will be utilized for mega-constellation replenishments in smaller increments, cubesat constellation deployments (or deployments of smaller class of satellite constellations), as well as technology developments, science, Earth Observation and other verticals.
This market’s challenge and opportunity still remains focused on schedule. As the industry trend towards rapid and more flexible launch capabilities gains momentum, all actors must respond in their own unique ways to remain competitive in the market. “With more players maturing and offering competitive value-added services and incentives to distinguish themselves from their competition, launch prices will increase,” says Pivovarova.
About the Report
NSR’s Smallsat Launch Vehicle Markets 2nd Edition (SLVM2) report is the industry’s most thorough analysis of the dedicated small launch vehicle market from a forecast and feasibility perspectives. Through market interviews, financial analysis, and careful monitoring of industry trends, SLVM2 is a crucial report for anyone seeking a deep understanding of the competitive landscape, revenue opportunities, and long-term feasibility of the small launch vehicle landscape in every region of the world. For additional information on this report, including a full table of content, list of exhibits, and executive summary, please visit www.nsr.com or call NSR at +1-617-674-7743.
About NSR
NSR is the leading global market research and consulting firm focused on the satellite and space sectors. NSR’s global team, unparalleled coverage and anticipation of trends with a higher degree of confidence and precision than the competition is the cornerstone of all NSR offerings. First to market coverage and a transparent, dependable approach sets NSR apart as the key provider of critical insight to the satellite and space industries. Contact us at info@nsr.com to discuss how we can assist your business.
Companies and Organizations Mentioned in this Report
Planet, Spire Global, OneWeb, SpaceX, Orbex, Firefly, Vector launch, Arianespace, Avio, ISRO, NSIL, Northrop Grumman, IHI, JAXA, Rocket Lab, Virgin Orbit, VOXSpace, Spinlaunch, Relativity Space, PLD Space, OneSpace, Interstellar Technologies, CASC, CASIC, Expace, Rocket Crafters, Gilmour Space Technologies, Bellatrix Aerospace, DARPA, ABL Space Systems, Astra (Stealth Rocket Company), SeaLaunch, S7 group, Stratolaunch, Skyrora, Linkspace, Space One, OneSpace, i-Space, SpaceFlight Industries, Sky and Space Global, SSTL, York Space systems, Astro Digital, Hiber Global, IceYe, Chang Guang Satellite Technology Co., Antrix, Noosphere Ventures, VALT Enterprises, Greenspring Associates, Khosla Ventures, Bessemer Venture Partners, DCVC, Promus Ventures