Launchers and Space Transportation: Critical Infrastructure for the New Orbital Economy

At the heart of the space economy lies the launcher and orbital transportation subsector. Far more than just lift-off vectors, these systems represent the gateway to off-planet activity. They enable the placement of satellites, payloads, crewed missions, and scientific experiments into low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), geostationary orbit (GEO), and even interplanetary trajectories. In this sense, they can be compared to ports or interstate highways on Earth, forming essential infrastructure without which the space economy would not exist.

Sustained Growth and Structural Transition
The global launch market has experienced robust growth in recent years. In 2023 alone, there were over 210 successful orbital launches, setting a new historical record. SpaceX led by far, accounting for more than 50% of global market share, followed by China, Russia, and India. According to Euroconsult estimates, the market exceeded $13 billion, with a projected annual growth rate of 8% to 10% through 2032.

This momentum is driven not only by rising demand but also by profound transformations in the sector’s technological and economic models: reusable rockets, small launchers, and autonomous orbital logistics services.

The Reusability Revolution: Orbital-Scale Economic Efficiency
One of the most disruptive milestones has been the development of reusable rockets. SpaceX, with its pioneering Falcon 9, has demonstrated that it is possible to reduce the cost per kilogram delivered to orbit by over 90%, from above $54,500/kg to current values near $6,500/kg (SpaceX, 2023).

This leap in efficiency has democratized access to space, enabling the entry of new players. Companies like Blue Origin, Relativity Space, and Rocket Lab are complementing this trend with technologies such as 3D printing, reusable engines, and modular platforms.

Democratizing Access: Small Launchers and New Players
The rise of small launchers—lightweight vehicles for payloads between 100 and 1,500 kg—has opened space to universities, startups, emerging space agencies, and small operators. Companies like Rocket Lab (Electron), Firefly Aerospace (Alpha), and Astra offer more affordable, agile, and tailored services.

This decentralization is shaping a more plural and dynamic ecosystem, where space capabilities are no longer the monopoly of major powers, but are expanding to new tech hubs and developing regions.

Autonomous Space Logistics: The “Last Mile” in Orbit
A key evolution in space transportation is the emergence of orbital last-mile delivery systems—autonomous platforms capable of maneuvering in orbit, relocating payloads, performing maintenance, or even refueling satellites.

Companies such as D-Orbit (Italy), Exotrail (France), and Momentus (USA) are developing space tugs that enable distributed orbital logistics, comparable to the ground-based revolution of smart fleets and differentiated delivery in e-commerce.

From State Hegemony to a Hybrid Ecosystem
For decades, launchers were exclusively operated by state agencies such as NASA, Roscosmos, CNSA, or ESA. However, the last decade has seen a transition toward a hybrid model, in which the private sector leads the development and operation of many launch vehicles.

In 2000, more than 90% of launches were state-run; by 2023, over 60% were carried out by private companies with commercial models and venture capital funding. This shift is energizing the sector and fostering significant industrial spillovers.

Industrial Linkages and Technological Sovereignty
Launcher development stimulates value chains that span propulsion, advanced materials, embedded software, and integration platforms. It also promotes the creation of regional tech clusters, such as those in California, Toulouse, and Bangalore, where industry, academia, and public agencies converge.

Having domestic launch capabilities also carries strategic implications: reducing technological dependence, strengthening defense capabilities, and securing orbital sovereignty. Countries like India, South Korea, Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates are developing their own vehicles to pursue these goals.

Final Considerations
The launcher and space transportation subsector is undergoing a profound structural reconfiguration. The convergence of technological innovation, private capital, and geopolitical vision is redefining its role in the global economy.

It is no longer just about reaching orbit, but about enabling a new multi-orbital, distributed, and decentralized economic model. In this new context, competitiveness is measured in terms of logistical flexibility, cost efficiency, technological integration, and adaptability to highly dynamic environments.

Referencias Bibliográficas 
– Euroconsult (2023).Prospects for the Space Economy 2023–2032. Euroconsult Reports. 
– Space Foundation (2024).The Space Report Q3 2023. Available   
– BryceTech (2024).2023 Orbital Launch Report. BryceTech Publications. 
– NASA (2023).Commercial Space Launch Act and Private Sector Partnerships Overview. 
– SpaceX (2023).Launch Stats and Reusability Data. Internal Data Sheets and Public Disclosures. 
– Momentus Inc., D-Orbit & Exotrail (2023). Company White Papers and Technical Brochures on Orbital Transfer Vehicles. 
– Rocket Lab USA Inc. (2023). Electron Launch Vehicle Overview. Technical Documentation. 
– Firefly Aerospace (2023). Alpha Launch Vehicle: Capabilities and Commercial Vision. Firefly Reports.