Space startups raised a record $20.8 billion in the third quarter, as investors backed launch companies, manufacturers and other infrastructure businesses.
The total nearly tripled the $7.4 billion invested in the second quarter, according to Seraphim’s latest SpaceTech Investment Tracker.
However, one deal drove much of the jump. Blue Origin raised $10 billion during the quarter.
Even without that financing, investment reached a record $10.8 billion. Seraphim also counted 216 deals, up from 140 in the previous quarter.
Infrastructure draws most of the funding
Launch and space-access companies attracted $16.4 billion across 120 deals. Meanwhile, satellite communications, Earth observation and other space-service companies raised $4 billion.
These businesses build the systems that get satellites into orbit and connect them to users on Earth.
Investors are also responding to commercial orders and government-backed programs.
Governments increasingly want domestic space capabilities for defense and national security.
As a result, demand can support companies that build rockets, satellites and related infrastructure.
Major funding rounds included $1.37 billion for Hadrian, $1 billion for Stoke Space and $500 million for K2 Space.
North America accounted for about 70% of global funding year to date. China also recorded a quarterly high, with $3.3 billion across 49 deals.
Still, private fundraising strength has not lifted every space company. Seraphim said many publicly listed firms remain unprofitable.
The firm expects investment to ease from the quarter’s exceptional level. Even so, it expects funding to stay above historical norms as more companies expand.
