Rocket Lab and AST SpaceMobile both reported Q2 2026 earnings, aiming to disrupt SpaceX in different ways. Rocket Lab posted $234 million in revenue, up 62%, with a $2.36 billion backlog and strong defense contracts, showing a diversified business model including satellite manufacturing and launch services. AST SpaceMobile, focusing on direct-to-phone broadband, reported $31.5 million revenue but missed expectations and faced a large loss due to a launch incident, though it is preparing beta services with strategic partners. Rocket Lab is seen as a safer, diversified investment, while AST offers higher risk and potential reward depending on its beta service success and satellite launches.
AST SpaceMobile's stock fell 6% after SpaceX agreed to acquire a nationwide low-band spectrum portfolio that AST had been pursuing, closing off a key option for expanding its satellite phone service. This spectrum is crucial for direct-to-device sate...
Rocket Lab's stock has fallen over 50% from its 52-week high due to dilution and missed earnings, but analysts remain optimistic. The company is developing the Neutron medium-lift reusable rocket, which could compete with SpaceX's Falcon 9, and has a...
AST SpaceMobile's stock dropped 7% following the FCC's approval for SpaceX to build a satellite network that connects directly to ordinary phones without needing wireless carriers. This regulatory change threatens AST SpaceMobile's business model, wh...
Space stocks, including Intuitive Machines, Rocket Lab, and Redwire, are experiencing significant declines, with Intuitive Machines falling 7% despite expanding its satellite manufacturing business. The sector-wide selloff contrasts with the broader ...
Rocket Lab has canceled its $3.6 billion bridge loan without borrowing any money and fully funded its acquisition of Iridium Communications. Iridium's approximately $500 million annual EBITDA significantly improves Rocket Lab's financials, turning an...
