The third quarter of 2024 witnessed significant activity in global space operations, with multiple nations and private companies contributing to orbital launches and spacecraft deployment.
Launch Operations
The United States dominated the orbital launch landscape with 32 launches, while China followed with 16 launches. Other notable participants included Russia, Iran, India, Japan, and Europe, though with significantly fewer launches.
Launch Providers Performance
SpaceX emerged as the clear leader in multiple metrics:
- Completed the highest number of orbital launches
- Deployed 518 spacecraft
- Achieved approximately 362,087 kg of spacecraft upmass
The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) maintained its position as the second most active launch provider, managing approximately 30,350 kg of upmass.
Spacecraft Characteristics
Mass Distribution
Smaller satellites dominated the launch manifest, with spacecraft under 1,200 kg representing 96% of all launches and 79% of total upmass. The total upmass for Q3 reached 422,569 kg.
Service Types
Communications satellites constituted the majority of launches:
- Communications: 67%
- Remote Sensing: 24%
- Technology Development: 3%
- Scientific: 1%
- Other services: 4%
Market Segmentation
The commercial sector showed strong dominance in spacecraft operations:
- Commercial operators: 75%
- Government (Civil): 14%
- Government (National Security): 11%
Launch Provider Diversity
The market saw participation from various companies and agencies, including:
- Traditional players: SpaceX, CASC, ULA
- Emerging companies: ExPace, Firefly Aerospace, Rocket Lab
- National space agencies: Roscosmos, ISRO, IRGC
This quarter’s activities demonstrate the continuing commercialization of space operations and the growing importance of smaller satellite deployments in the global space ecosystem.
Source: Bryce Space and Technology Quarterly Briefing, Q3 2024
