US Rocket Companies Ranked: Who's Rising & Falling in 2024?

The US space launch industry is a dynamic and fiercely competitive landscape. Each year brings new advancements, challenges, and shifts in power. GearTech is back with our annual power ranking of US launch companies, offering a comprehensive look at which players achieved the most in 2024. This ranking, initiated in 2022, aims to spark discussion and acknowledge the immense technical and financial hurdles faced by these ambitious companies. It’s a demanding business, and we respect the dedication and innovation driving it forward. This list is subjective, informed by hard metrics like launch frequency, payload capacity, success rates, and more, focusing solely on accomplishments within 2024, not future projections.

1. SpaceX (No Change from 2023)

SpaceX continues its undisputed reign as the leader in the US launch sector. As in previous years, they easily secure the top spot. By early December, SpaceX had completed an astounding 165 launches in 2024, primarily utilizing their reliable Falcon 9 boosters. The company has delivered over 1 million tons of cargo to orbit and remains NASA’s critical partner for maintaining the International Space Station with consistent crew and supply rotations. This consistent performance solidifies their position as the industry benchmark.

The Starship program, however, presented a mixed bag of results. While the first three launches (January, March, and May) experienced upper stage failures, the subsequent two flights (August and October) demonstrated significant progress, paving the way for the Block 3 iteration. Unfortunately, the first Block 3 Super Heavy booster suffered a catastrophic failure during pressure testing, highlighting the inherent risks of developing such a massive and complex vehicle.

2. Blue Origin (+2)

Blue Origin makes the biggest leap in our ranking, moving from No. 4 to No. 2. This surge is largely attributed to the successful suborbital flight carrying Katy Perry, a significant publicity win. More importantly, 2024 marked a breakthrough year for Jeff Bezos’ company, dispelling doubts about its ability to deliver on its promises.

The inaugural launch of the New Glenn rocket in January was a resounding success, delivering a test payload to orbit. Despite a landing attempt failure due to engine re-ignition issues, the launch itself was a major achievement. November saw New Glenn successfully deploy a pair of small spacecraft en route to Mars, followed by a stunning and inspiring landing of the rocket’s first stage on a barge. This successful landing on only the second launch is a testament to Blue Origin’s engineering prowess. Furthermore, New Shepard completed a record eight launches, and the Blue Moon Mk 1 lunar lander neared completion. Blue Origin also significantly ramped up production of BE-4 engines, alleviating concerns voiced by United Launch Alliance (ULA).

3. Rocket Lab (No Change)

Rocket Lab enjoyed an excellent year, achieving a record 18 Electron launches with a perfect mission success rate. The company has now completed nearly three dozen launches without a failure, demonstrating remarkable reliability. Progress on the Neutron medium-lift vehicle continued, although its debut has been pushed back to mid-2026 at the earliest.

Rocket Lab also expanded its role as a spacecraft provider. They played a crucial role in supporting Firefly’s Blue Ghost lander and, in November, successfully activated their two ESCAPADE vehicles after launch, initiating their journey to Mars. Rocket Lab’s ability to consistently execute remains a key strength.

4. United Launch Alliance (-2)

2024 was anticipated to be a pivotal year for ULA, with the Vulcan rocket finally operational. However, expectations were not met. CEO Tory Bruno initially projected as many as 20 missions, split between the Atlas V and Vulcan. ULA is now projected to conclude 2024 with just six flights – five with the Atlas V and only one with the Vulcan rocket.

The sole Vulcan launch occurred on August 12, carrying a US Space Force payload. Investigations into the vehicle’s solid rocket boosters are suspected to be the cause of the limited Vulcan flights in 2024. Adding to the challenges, Blue Origin recruited Bruno to lead its new national security division, a significant loss for ULA, especially considering their reliance on national defense contracts and engine procurement from Blue Origin.

5. Northrop Grumman (+1)

Northrop Grumman was one of only two US companies to achieve a successful orbital launch in 2024. In April, their Minotaur IV rocket delivered a payload to orbit for the National Reconnaissance Office.

The company also introduced the larger Cygnus XL spacecraft, though initial engine burn issues delayed its arrival at the International Space Station. Currently, Cygnus missions rely on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 for launch, as Northrop’s Antares 330 rocket remains under development. The success of the Northrop-Firefly collaboration in getting the Antares 330 operational will be a key storyline to watch in the coming year.

6. Firefly (-1)

Firefly began 2024 with a major success: the Blue Ghost lander, launched on a Falcon 9, achieved a successful soft landing on the Moon, making Firefly the first private company to accomplish this feat.

However, the year was less successful in terms of launches. The Alpha rocket flew only once, in April, carrying an experimental satellite for Lockheed Martin. A stage separation issue damaged the upper stage engine, preventing the payload from reaching orbit. Then, in September, a Firefly Alpha rocket was destroyed during a static fire test in Texas, ending the year on a disappointing note.

7. Stoke Space (No Change)

Stoke Space has yet to launch a rocket, but continues to make steady progress. A visit to their launch site in November revealed that all ground systems for the Nova rocket are in place. The company is targeting a 2026 debut, but as with all new rockets, launch dates should be viewed with caution.

Stoke distinguishes itself through substantial fundraising, securing a $510 million Series D funding round in October. This significant investment demonstrates investor confidence in the company’s technology and potential, providing a strong financial foundation for development.

8. Relativity Space (No Change)

Relativity Space faced potential bankruptcy a year ago, but a crucial investment from former Google CEO Eric Schmidt revitalized the company. Schmidt is now effectively the owner and CEO.

Thanks to Schmidt’s funding, Relativity is back on track with the development of the Terran R rocket, a potentially game-changing launch vehicle. However, the actual progress of Terran R remains somewhat opaque, with limited public outreach under Schmidt’s leadership. A 2026 launch seems unlikely, but would be a remarkable achievement.

9. Astra (No Change)

Astra, resurrected from near collapse last year, continues development of its Rocket 4 vehicle, aiming for a 600 kg payload capacity to low-Earth orbit.

Hotfire test videos posted on social media demonstrate ongoing work on the first stage engine. The company is targeting a mid-2026 debut for Rocket 4, which realistically translates to 2027. We remain hopeful to see Rocket 4 take flight in 2026.

10. Phantom Space and Vaya Space (Previously Unranked)

We include Phantom Space and Vaya Space on this list to reach a top 10, recognizing the challenges of ranking emerging companies. Both companies share Launch Complex 13 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

Progress at Phantom Space with the Daytona rocket and Vaya Space with the Dauntless vehicle remains unclear. Both appear to be perpetually two years away from a launch. Reaching orbit before the end of the decade would be a significant accomplishment for either company.