Global investment in the space economy is projected to exceed $100 billion for the first time in 2026, driven by SpaceX’s record-breaking IPO, increased defense spending, and expanding space infrastructure. According to Space Capital’s third-quarter analysis, the number of space companies achieving unicorn valuations has also reached a new high. Space Capital CEO Chad Anderson stated that the current market surge surpasses the 2021 SPAC frenzy, describing the earlier boom as minor by comparison. The unprecedented capital inflow is largely attributed to SpaceX's public listing this summer, which has prompted investors to reassess and upgrade valuations across the broader space sector.