The number of space launches continues to break records each year. In 2024, there were 259 orbital launches around the world, representing 2.5 times the number of launches just five years earlier. In addition to the exponential growth of space missions, space missions have also become increasingly more dynamic—spanning from impressively small vehicles to some of the largest rockets in history. The payload diversity has created a rich tapestry of mission types and capabilities, from exquisite monolithic space assets to proliferated small satellite constellations.
The Aerospace Corporation is a key enabler in accelerating the pace of space launch, leveraging the depth and breadth of technical expertise and strategic collaboration to support mission success at every stage of the launch lifecycle. From launch certification to payload integration, agile processes, resilient architecture and even diving-catch scenarios, Aerospace is forging the end-to-end connections that make space work.
“Mission success depends on both innovation and operational readiness,” said Randy Kendall, vice president of Launch, Missiles, and Mobility at Aerospace. “Our role is to support this transformation— working alongside both established and emerging launch providers to ensure that new capabilities are integrated safely, efficiently, and successfully. We have the expertise providers need to push the boundaries of what’s possible while giving every mission the best chance of success.”
Ushering in a New Era for Space Launch
The space launch industry is undergoing a transformational shift as legacy launch vehicles retire and a new generation emerges to expand the range of possibilities for space access.
With the final National Security Space Launch missions for ULA’s Delta IV Heavy and Atlas V now behind us, this new era of launch relies on advanced systems like Blue Origin’s New Glenn, SpaceX’s Falcon and ULA’s Vulcan Centaur. New Glenn and Vulcan both performed inaugural launches in the past year, as Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy have continued to achieve new milestones in reusability and cost-effective access to space.
Meanwhile, SpaceX’s Starship system is on track to advance heavy-lift capabilities to unprecedented levels. These vehicles are designed to carry larger, more diverse payloads, from next-generation satellites, proliferated constellations and space station modules to deep-space exploration missions. With increased lift capacity and reusability, they are opening new possibilities for national security, scientific discovery, and commercial ventures.
At the same time, small launch vehicles like Rocket Lab’s Electron and Firefly Aerospace’s Alpha are increasing agility, flexibility and responsiveness in getting small payloads to orbit. These advancements are accelerating access to space and reshaping the small launch landscape.
In this rapidly evolving environment, the success of each mission remains critical to strengthening the nation’s leadership in space. Aerospace brings the deep technical expertise, collaborative approach and objective insight that enables both government and commercial partners to turn bold, new ideas into exciting realities.
Adapting to a Changing Space Environment
As the space domain becomes increasingly dynamic, mission architectures and launch strategies require greater versatility and responsiveness to meet this challenging future. Through larger payload capacity, greater orbital reach, and improved responsiveness and resilience, today’s breadth of launch options and providers enables new mission concepts and innovative breakthroughs.
“Launch schedules are becoming more dynamic, and the emphasis on tactically responsive space further underscores the need for rapid and reliable access to orbit,” Kendall said. “These developments are not only expanding access to space but also redefining expectations for mission readiness and risk management.”
In this evolving landscape, Aerospace plays a key role as the nation’s trusted partner in space. Leveraging decades of experience honed through supporting national security and civil space missions, Aerospace collaborates with its government and industry partners to facilitate new launch architectures, integrate emerging technologies, and refine mission strategies. By embracing forward-thinking approaches, Aerospace ensures innovation is met with the reliability and performance needed for sustained progress.
“We bridge the gap between government and commercial space, allowing innovation and cost efficiency to drive the industry forward while also upholding the highest standards,” Kendall said.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The next generation of space launch is not just about reaching orbit —it’s about getting there faster, reliably and more efficiently. By combining innovation with proven expertise, Aerospace is bringing creative solutions to an increasingly complex industry. For example, while the integration of a satellite and launch vehicle may typically take two years to complete, Aerospace has supported recent missions that achieved payload integration within 10 months, and in one instance, less than five months.
“The innovations shaping the future of space launch are accelerating access to orbit and beyond in ways that were once unimaginable,” Kendall said. “We’re excited about the opportunities these new technologies bring, and we’re committed to working alongside the industry to support advancements, ensuring that every mission — whether national security, scientific, or commercial — has the best chance of success.”
From onboarding of new launch providers to development of rapid launch solutions and novel architectures, Aerospace’s expertise is more essential than ever in maintaining the security and resilience of space operations and championing emerging technologies.
The future of space is underway — and Aerospace is committed to ensuring success in this shared endeavor.
