Feverish smallsat activity to keep launch rates at historic highs this year

摘要

Small satellites will help keep launch rates this year at highs not seen in decades, posing new risks and opportunities for investors grappling with intensifying competition and rapid technological advances. About 115 launch attempts are expected to have closed out 2018, TelAstra consultancy president Roger Rusch told SatelliteFinance. That would represent a 27% increase from 90 attempts in 2017, which comprises satellite and non-satellite missions and non-commercial launches, according to Satellite Industry Association research. As of mid-December 2018, there had been around 105 launch attempts.