The space travel industry is rapidly evolving, with a surge of private companies redefining the boundaries of space exploration and tourism. This sector includes a broad range of services—from satellite launches and lunar missions to space tourism experiences. Collaboration with government agencies like NASA plays a critical role, while rapid advancements in technology drive the development of reusable rockets and sustainable practices. Looking ahead, the industry is likely to witness increased commercial partnerships and competitive ventures, pushing humanity closer to a multi-planetary future and realizing ambitious visions for Moon and Mars exploration.

The listed space travel companies present a mix of innovative enterprises, ranging from established giants like SpaceX and Blue Origin to emerging firms such as Sierra Space and Lunar Outpost. While many operate in the U.S., international players like Axiom Research Labs and Exotrail show a global momentum. Their foundations span over two decades, highlighting their commitment to advancing aerospace technology. Specializations range from satellite deployment to commercial space stations, reflecting a dynamic environment. Each company’s growth trajectory illustrates the increasing investment and interest in space travel solutions for both commercial and governmental clients.

Read on to explore the top space travel companies.

Top 21 Space Travel Companies

1. SpaceX

• Website: spacex.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Hawthorne, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: January 2025
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: spacex

SpaceX, founded in 2002 and based in Hawthorne, California, is a private aerospace manufacturer and launch service provider. The company specializes in the design and production of advanced rockets and spacecraft. Its flagship products include the Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets, which are known for their reusability and cost-effectiveness. SpaceX also developed the Dragon spacecraft, which has been used for cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station (ISS) and for crewed flights under NASA's Commercial Crew Program. The company is actively working on the Starship, a fully reusable spacecraft intended for missions to Mars and beyond. Additionally, SpaceX operates Starlink, a satellite internet constellation aimed at providing high-speed internet access globally. The company serves a wide range of clients, including government agencies and commercial enterprises, solidifying its position as a key player in the aerospace industry.

2. Blue Origin

• Website: blueorigin.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Kent, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: February 2024
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: blue-origin

Blue Origin, founded in 2000 and based in Kent, Washington, is an aerospace manufacturer and launch service provider. The company specializes in the development of rockets and spacecraft, with a strong focus on reusability and sustainability. Their flagship vehicle, New Shepard, is designed for suborbital flights, allowing passengers to experience weightlessness and view Earth from space. Blue Origin also works on other projects, including the New Glenn orbital rocket and the Blue Moon lunar lander, aimed at supporting missions to the Moon. The company primarily serves both government agencies, such as NASA, and commercial customers interested in space travel. With over 10,000 employees, Blue Origin is positioned as a key player in the evolving space industry.

3. Sierra Space

• Website: sierraspace.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Louisville, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, $290.0M, September 2023
• Founded year: 2021
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: sierraspace

Sierra Space Corporation, founded in 2021 and based in Louisville, Colorado, is an aerospace company specializing in advanced space technologies. The company is known for its development of the Dream Chaser spaceplane, which is designed to deliver cargo to the International Space Station (ISS) and is notable for its runway landing capability. Sierra Space serves both government agencies and commercial clients, providing innovative solutions for space logistics and research. The company is also involved in the creation of commercial space stations, such as the LIFE habitat and Orbital Reef, which aim to facilitate human activities in low Earth orbit. With a workforce of over 1,500 employees and significant recent funding of $290 million in September 2023, Sierra Space is positioned to play a pivotal role in the future of space exploration and utilization.

4. Axiom Space

• Website: axiomspace.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Latest funding: March 2025
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: axiom-space

Axiom Space, Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Houston, Texas, is a company dedicated to developing space infrastructure with a focus on human spaceflight services. The firm specializes in missions to the International Space Station (ISS) and is actively working on the construction of Axiom Station, which aims to be the first commercial space station. Axiom Space caters to a range of clients, including private individuals, national astronauts, and research organizations, facilitating research and innovation in microgravity. The company is also involved in the development of next-generation spacesuits designed for various environments, including low-Earth orbit and lunar missions. Axiom Space's strategic partnerships and ongoing projects underscore its role in shaping the future of commercial space travel and exploration.

5. United Launch Alliance (ULA)

• Website: ulalaunch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Centennial, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $25.0M, July 2023
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: ula---united-launch-alliance---lockheed-martin-%26-boeing

United Launch Alliance (ULA), founded in 2006 and based in Centennial, Colorado, is a private aerospace company that specializes in space launch services. ULA has established itself as a reliable provider of launch capabilities, delivering payloads into orbit for a variety of clients, including government agencies and commercial enterprises. The company operates a fleet of rockets, such as the Vulcan, Atlas V, Delta IV, and Delta II, which have collectively completed over 155 missions. ULA is recognized for its precision and reliability, particularly in launching critical missions that support national security and scientific exploration. The company has also made significant investments in modernizing its infrastructure and enhancing its launch capabilities, ensuring it remains competitive in the evolving space industry. In July 2023, ULA received $25 million in funding, reflecting continued confidence in its operations and future prospects.

6. Moon Express

• Website: moonexpress.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Cape Canaveral, Florida, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 68%, United States Virgin Islands 32%
• Latest funding: $12.5M, October 2018
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: moon-express

Moon Express Inc, founded in 2010 and based in Cape Canaveral, Florida, is a space exploration company dedicated to lunar missions and resource utilization. The company specializes in developing robotic spacecraft systems aimed at commercial lunar exploration and scientific expeditions. They cater to businesses and organizations in the aerospace and research sectors, offering innovative solutions that aim to lower costs and broaden access to the Moon. Moon Express made history on July 20, 2016, by becoming the first company to receive U.S. government approval to send a robotic spacecraft beyond traditional Earth orbit, marking a significant milestone in commercial space exploration. The company has also secured funding, with a reported amount of $12.5 million as of October 2018, which supports their ambitious plans for lunar expeditions. Their MX family of spacecraft is designed for various applications, including scientific payload delivery and charter missions, further demonstrating their commitment to advancing lunar exploration.

7. Bigelow Aerospace

• Website: bigelowaerospace.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: North Las Vegas, Nevada, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bigelow-aerospace

Bigelow Aerospace, founded in 1999 by entrepreneur Robert T. Bigelow, is a private aerospace company based in North Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm focuses on the development of expandable habitats designed for use in space missions. With a workforce of approximately 150 employees, Bigelow Aerospace has invested over $350 million into research and development of its technologies. The company has successfully launched two prototype spacecraft, Genesis I and II, which validated the functionality of expandable habitat technology. Additionally, the Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM) was launched to the International Space Station, marking a significant milestone as the first expandable module in orbit. Bigelow Aerospace is also working on the B330 habitat, aimed at providing living and working space for astronauts in low Earth orbit and beyond. Their commitment to creating safe and cost-effective space habitation solutions positions them as a notable player in the aerospace industry.

8. Space Perspective

• Website: spaceperspective.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Seongmisan-Ro, Seoul, South Korea
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Australia 3%
• Latest funding: February 2024
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: space-perspective

Space Perspective is a space tourism company based in the United States, founded in 2019. The company specializes in offering commercial space flights aboard its unique vessel, Spaceship Neptune. This innovative spacecraft is designed to provide a safe and accessible experience for adventure seekers and space enthusiasts alike. The journey lasts approximately six hours, during which passengers ascend to an altitude of 100,000 feet, float for two hours, and then descend gently back to Earth. The experience includes panoramic views through the largest windows ever flown to space, a world-class culinary program, and luxury amenities, including a restroom. Space Perspective aims to redefine space travel by making it more accessible and enjoyable. The company is also committed to sustainability, claiming to be the first carbon-neutral human spaceflight experience. Their team consists of seasoned professionals with extensive experience in human spacecraft development, further solidifying their position in the space tourism industry. The first commercial flights are planned for 2025, and the company has already begun rigorous testing of its systems.

9. Astrobotic

• Website: astrobotic.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $34.6M, July 2023
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: astrobotic-technology-inc.

Astrobotic Technology, Inc., based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a space robotics company founded in 2007. The firm focuses on developing advanced technology for lunar and planetary missions, offering a range of products including lunar landers, rovers, and power solutions. Astrobotic caters to both space agencies and commercial entities aiming to explore the Moon. Their innovative approach not only facilitates payload delivery but also supports scientific research on the lunar surface. The company has been involved in significant projects, including partnerships with NASA for lunar missions. Recently, Astrobotic secured $34.6 million in funding in July 2023, reflecting strong investor confidence in their mission and technology. Their commitment to advancing lunar exploration makes them a notable player in the space industry.

10. TeamIndus - Axiom Research Labs

• Website: teamindus.in
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
• Employee distribution: India 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: teamindus

TeamIndus - Axiom Research Labs, based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, is a private space exploration company founded in 2011. With a team of approximately 51-200 employees, the company specializes in providing innovative platforms and engineering services tailored for planetary missions. TeamIndus aims to assist businesses in the aerospace industry by offering solutions that significantly reduce costs and lead times through advanced systems engineering and program management. Their product offerings include mobility systems, orbital systems, and comprehensive support for various space missions. The company is dedicated to enhancing the accessibility of space exploration, employing new methodologies and materials to streamline mission timelines and lower overall costs. Their scalable platforms are designed for rapid turnaround and cater to multiple in-space applications, including lunar landings and orbital delivery, making them a notable entity in the space travel industry.

11. Zero-G

• Website: gozerog.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $3.0M, October 2022
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: gozerog

Zero-G, officially known as Zero Gravity Corporation, is a private equity company based in the United States, founded in 1993. It specializes in providing zero gravity flight experiences for individuals and organizations. The company operates using a specially modified B-727 aircraft, known as G-Force One, to create real-life weightlessness through parabolic flight maneuvers. Zero-G's clientele includes aspiring astronauts, scientists conducting research, and businesses looking to create unique marketing campaigns. They have conducted over 850 flights and hosted more than 22,000 guests, showcasing their extensive experience in the field. In 2022, Zero-G secured $3 million in funding, indicating ongoing interest and investment in their operations. Their services also include research flights, private charters, and media production opportunities, making them a multifaceted player in the space travel industry.

12. Alaska Aerospace Corporation

• Website: akaerospace.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Kodiak, Alaska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: alaska-aerospace-corporation

Alaska Aerospace Corporation (AAC) is a private aerospace company founded in 1991, headquartered in Kodiak, Alaska. The company specializes in space launch services and operates the Pacific Spaceport Complex Alaska (PSCA), which has been facilitating launches since 1998. PSCA is notable for being one of the few FAA-licensed spaceports in the United States that is not co-located on a federal range. AAC serves a variety of clients, including government agencies and commercial enterprises, providing them with reliable access to space for missions related to national security, scientific research, and commercial applications. The company is also involved in educational initiatives and community outreach, aiming to foster interest in aerospace among local populations. AAC has developed a reputation for offering responsive and flexible launch solutions, which are essential in today's fast-paced aerospace environment. The company has also been working on expanding its capabilities with new commercial spaceports and mobile systems to support various launch sites.

13. Skyroot Aerospace

• Website: skyroot.in
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Hyderabad, Telangana, India
• Employee distribution: India 100%
• Latest funding: Series C, $27.0M, October 2023
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: skyroot-aerospace

Skyroot Aerospace Private Limited, based in Hyderabad, India, is an aerospace manufacturer and launch service provider that specializes in developing small-lift launch vehicles for the satellite market. Founded in 2018 by former ISRO scientists, the company aims to make space access affordable and reliable. Skyroot's Vikram series of rockets, which includes Vikram I, II, and III, are designed to cater to a wide range of payload requirements and orbital inclinations. The company has made notable progress in its technology, including the successful test firing of India's first privately developed solid rocket stage and cryogenic engines. With a team of over 300 employees and a cumulative experience of 2000 years in the rocket industry, Skyroot is committed to pushing technological boundaries. The company has raised a total of $95.5 million in funding, with its latest Series C round completed in October 2023, further solidifying its position in the competitive space sector.

14. ArianeGroup

• Website: ariane.group
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Les Mureaux, Île-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 85%, Germany 11%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: February 2024
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: airbus-safran-launchers

ArianeGroup, founded in 2015 and based in Les Mureaux, France, is an aerospace manufacturer that specializes in space transportation and defense systems. With a workforce of over 6,000 employees, the company plays a crucial role in providing advanced launchers and propulsion systems. Notably, ArianeGroup is responsible for the development of the Ariane 6, a versatile heavy-lift launcher designed to meet the needs of both institutional and commercial customers. The company also offers a range of services and equipment for spacecraft, ensuring reliable access to space. In addition to its space transportation capabilities, ArianeGroup is involved in defense systems, including hypersonic technologies and space surveillance, which further underscores its expertise in aerospace. The company operates primarily in France and Germany, with a strong focus on innovation and technology to support its mission of enhancing security and independence in space.

15. Orbex

• Website: orbex.space
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Forres, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 61%, Denmark 39%
• Latest funding: Series D, $28.6M, January 2025
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: orbital-express-launch-limited

Orbex, officially known as Orbital Express Launch Ltd., is a UK-based aerospace company founded in 2015. The firm focuses on the development and launch of small commercial rockets, with its flagship vehicle being the Orbex Prime. This two-stage rocket is designed to carry payloads of up to 180 kg into various orbits, including Sun Synchronous Orbit (SSO). Orbex operates from Sutherland Spaceport, located on the north coast of Scotland, which is the first UK spaceport capable of vertical rocket launches. The company emphasizes sustainability, utilizing advanced materials and innovative fuels that significantly reduce carbon emissions. Orbex has attracted substantial investment, including a recent Series D funding round, which underscores its potential and relevance in the small satellite launch market. The company collaborates with various partners, including the UK Space Agency and the European Space Agency, to enhance its capabilities and expand its service offerings.

16. PLD Space

• Website: pldspace.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Elche, Valencian Community, Spain
• Employee distribution: Spain 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $11.6M, December 2024
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: pld-space

PLD Space, founded in 2011 and based in Elche, Spain, is an aerospace company dedicated to the development of reusable launch vehicles. Their flagship projects, Miura 1 and Miura 5, aim to provide efficient and reliable launch services for small payloads, catering to a variety of clients including educational institutions and research organizations. The company is actively involved in advancing technology for microgravity research, enabling experiments that contribute to scientific knowledge. With a workforce of approximately 297 employees, PLD Space is positioned to make significant strides in the aerospace sector. Recently, they secured funding of over 11 million euros, which underscores their potential for growth and innovation in the space travel market.

17. Lunar Outpost

• Website: lunaroutpost.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Golden, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 65%, Australia 19%, Luxembourg 17%
• Latest funding: Series A, November 2024
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: lunaroutpost

Lunar Outpost, founded in 2017 and based in Golden, Colorado, is a space technology company that specializes in advanced spacecraft and robotics solutions tailored for space exploration. With a workforce of approximately 113 employees, the company is dedicated to enabling a sustainable human presence in space through innovative technology. Lunar Outpost has secured contracts for four lunar missions, with the first set to launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Their expertise spans mobility, human spaceflight, and payload integration, catering to a clientele that includes space agencies and research organizations. The company has a proven track record, having successfully operated technology on Mars and deployed thousands of autonomous systems on Earth. Their focus on research and development in the aerospace sector underscores their commitment to advancing space exploration and resource utilization.

18. China Great Wall Industry Corporation

• Website: cgwic.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Beijing, Beijing, China
• Latest funding: Series B, $17.0M, May 2017
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: china-great-wall-industry-corporation

China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC), founded in 1980 and based in Beijing, is a private equity aerospace company specializing in satellite launch services, satellite communication, and earth observation. With a workforce of approximately 201-500 employees, CGWIC has established itself as a reliable provider of access to space, catering to both international organizations and governments. The company is known for its Long March series of launch vehicles, which have been instrumental in deploying satellites into orbit. CGWIC also engages in various technological applications and offers comprehensive services, including consulting and trade. In 2017, the company secured $17 million in Series B funding, further supporting its initiatives in the aerospace sector. Their commitment to international cooperation and advanced satellite technologies underscores their role in the evolving landscape of space exploration and utilization.

19. Voyager Space

• Website: voyagerspace.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Denver, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $80.2M, February 2023
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: voyager-space-holdings

Voyager Space, founded in 2019 and based in Denver, Colorado, is a space technology company that focuses on advanced solutions for space exploration and satellite deployment. With a workforce of around 195 employees, the company has made significant strides in the aerospace industry. Voyager Space offers a range of services, including the Bishop Airlock, which became the first permanent commercial addition to the International Space Station in 2020. This airlock facilitates satellite deployment and microgravity research, enhancing operational efficiency in space. The company also addresses astronaut health and medicine, developing technologies to tackle the unique medical challenges of spaceflight. In early 2023, Voyager Space secured $80.2 million in funding, underscoring investor confidence in its mission and capabilities. Their educational initiatives, such as the HUNCH program, engage high school students in real-world space hardware development, further solidifying their role in the industry.

20. Skyrora Ltd

• Website: skyrora.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Cumbernauld, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 86%, Ukraine 14%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $3.4M, March 2021
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: skyrora-limited

Skyrora Ltd, founded in 2017 and based in Cumbernauld, Scotland, specializes in aerospace technology with a focus on launch vehicles for small satellites. The company aims to meet the increasing demand for efficient and reliable access to space. Skyrora's product lineup includes the Skyrora XL, a three-stage rocket designed for Sun-Synchronous Orbit, and the Skylark series, which features suborbital and supersonic launch vehicles. They also offer a Space Tug service, enhancing their capabilities in orbit. With a workforce of around 73 employees, Skyrora has received funding, including a grant of approximately £3.4 million in 2021, which supports their innovative projects and sustainability initiatives. Their commitment to recycling materials into rocket fuel further underscores their focus on environmental responsibility within the aerospace sector.

21. Exotrail

• Website: exotrail.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Massy, Île-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, $58.0M, February 2023
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: exotrail

Exotrail, founded in 2015 and based in Massy, Île-De-France, France, is a private equity-backed company specializing in mobility solutions for satellites. With a team of approximately 176 employees, Exotrail is dedicated to enhancing the operational efficiency of small satellites through innovative technologies. Their offerings include high-thrust propulsion systems, mission design software, and orbital transfer vehicles, all designed to optimize satellite deployment and reduce space pollution. The company has recently secured significant funding, amounting to €58 million in a Series B round in February 2023, which underscores investor confidence in their vision. Exotrail's mission is to facilitate effective satellite movement in space, thereby supporting a new era of telecommunications, Earth observation, and space exploration.

Space Travel Insights: Key Companies

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