rocket report a new super-heavy launch site A significant increase in global launch activity marks the beginning of 2026, with SpaceX and China leading the charge in orbital launches.
rocket report a new super-heavy launch site
Introduction to the Rocket Report
Welcome to Edition 8.24 of the Rocket Report! After a restorative holiday break, we are eager to delve into the developments anticipated in 2026. This year promises to be filled with exciting advancements and milestones in the aerospace sector. In this edition, we will explore various storylines that are worth monitoring, including the potential for SpaceX’s Starship to begin launching Starlink satellites, the United Launch Alliance’s (ULA) efforts to achieve a higher launch cadence with its Vulcan rocket, and the certification status of Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket by the US Space Force. These questions and more will shape the landscape of space exploration in the coming year.
Launch Activity in Early 2026
As we kick off 2026, the launch pads around the world have seen a relatively slow start, with only two missions completed by SpaceX in the first week of the year. While two launches in a single week may seem modest compared to the rapid pace of launches in 2025, it is important to recognize that just a few years ago, such a frequency would have been considered remarkable. This shift in perception underscores the rapid evolution of the space launch industry.
Reader Engagement and Subscription
As always, we encourage reader submissions and feedback. If you wish to stay updated on the latest developments in the aerospace sector, consider subscribing to our newsletter. Each report will feature insights into small-, medium-, and heavy-lift rockets, along with a preview of the next three launches scheduled on the calendar.
Record-Breaking Launches in 2025
Reflecting on the previous year, 2025 set new records for orbital launch attempts worldwide, surpassing the previous year’s flight rate by an impressive 25 percent. According to a report by Aviation Week & Space Technology, SpaceX and China were the primary contributors to this surge in launch activity. The total number of orbital launch attempts reached 329, which includes near-orbital flight tests of SpaceX’s Starship-Super Heavy launch system. This data was compiled in an annual analysis of global launch and satellite activity by Jonathan’s Space Report.
Breakdown of Launch Attempts
Out of the 329 orbital launch attempts in 2025, a remarkable 321 successfully reached orbit or achieved marginal orbits. This high success rate is indicative of the advancements in launch technology and operational efficiency. Among these attempts, SpaceX conducted five Starship-Super Heavy launches, alongside an impressive 165 Falcon 9 rocket launches. This figure not only surpassed SpaceX’s 2024 record of 134 Falcon 9 launches but also included two Falcon Heavy flights, although no Falcon Heavy rockets were launched in 2025.
US Leadership in Space Launches
The United States solidified its position as the world leader in space launches, with US providers contributing significantly to the overall tally. Notably, Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket conducted 30 orbital flights from its New Zealand spaceport, further enhancing the US’s dominance in the global launch market. This trend reflects a growing reliance on commercial spaceflight capabilities, which are becoming increasingly vital for both governmental and private sector missions.
Looking Ahead: Key Developments in 2026
As we look forward to 2026, several key developments and trends are expected to shape the aerospace landscape. The following sections outline some of the most significant areas to watch in the coming months.
SpaceX and Starlink
One of the most anticipated developments is the potential for SpaceX’s Starship to begin launching Starlink satellites. Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet constellation, has already made significant strides in providing global internet coverage. The integration of Starship into this process could enhance the deployment speed and efficiency of Starlink satellites, allowing for a more robust and expansive network. This capability could also pave the way for future missions, including crewed flights to the Moon and Mars.
United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan Rocket
The United Launch Alliance (ULA) is also a key player to watch in 2026. The company has been working diligently to bring its Vulcan rocket into service, which is expected to offer a higher launch cadence compared to its predecessor, the Atlas V. The successful deployment of the Vulcan rocket could significantly impact the competitive landscape of the launch industry, particularly as ULA seeks to secure contracts with both governmental and commercial clients.
Blue Origin’s New Glenn Certification
Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket is another focal point for the year. The certification of New Glenn by the US Space Force is crucial for the company’s future in the launch market. Achieving this certification would enable Blue Origin to compete more effectively for government contracts, which are often lucrative and provide a steady stream of revenue. The successful launch of New Glenn could also bolster Blue Origin’s reputation as a serious contender in the commercial spaceflight sector.
Global Launch Landscape and Implications
The global launch landscape is evolving rapidly, with increasing competition and innovation driving advancements in technology and operational capabilities. The surge in launch activity in 2025 is indicative of a broader trend toward more frequent and reliable access to space. This trend has significant implications for various stakeholders, including government agencies, commercial space companies, and international partners.
Impact on Government Agencies
For government agencies, the increasing frequency of launches presents both opportunities and challenges. Agencies such as NASA and the US Space Force must adapt to the changing landscape by leveraging commercial partnerships and investing in new technologies. The ability to access space more frequently can enhance national security, scientific research, and international collaboration.
Commercial Space Companies
Commercial space companies stand to benefit from the growing demand for launch services. As more entities seek to deploy satellites for communication, Earth observation, and scientific research, the competition among launch providers is likely to intensify. Companies that can offer reliable and cost-effective launch solutions will be well-positioned to capture market share in this expanding industry.
International Collaboration
International collaboration is also expected to play a crucial role in the future of space exploration. As nations increasingly rely on commercial partners for launch capabilities, collaborative efforts in research, technology development, and mission planning will become essential. This collaborative approach can lead to shared resources, reduced costs, and enhanced capabilities for all parties involved.
Conclusion
As we embark on 2026, the aerospace industry is poised for significant advancements and developments. With record-breaking launch activity in 2025 and a host of exciting projects on the horizon, the coming year promises to be a pivotal time for space exploration. Stakeholders across the spectrum, from government agencies to commercial space companies, will need to navigate this evolving landscape to seize opportunities and address challenges. The questions surrounding SpaceX’s Starship, ULA’s Vulcan rocket, and Blue Origin’s New Glenn certification will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of the industry in the months ahead.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: January 10, 2026 at 5:43 am
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