Constellations & Capital: Space Tech Enters New Orbit

In this episode of "MediaTalk," the S&P Global Market Intelligence team brings together reporters from around the globe to unpack the seismic shifts underway in the space technology sector. With SpaceX's highly anticipated IPO on the horizon, the team explores how this historic event could reshape not just the space industry, but the broader IPO market. Key insights include the changing dynamics between SpaceX and the US government, with Defense Department contracts now outpacing NASA's. The team examines how these factors complicate investor visibility and legal protections — especially as SpaceX considers waiving traditional lock-up periods. The episode also spotlights Starlink's rapid growth and its first-mover advantage in the US satellite internet market, as well as Amazon's strategic moves with its Globalstar acquisition. Space technology M&A activity is surging in 2026, even as the rise of mega constellations prompts questions about market capacity and competition. As the space tech sector enters a new orbit, MediaTalk asks: Will SpaceX's IPO set a new standard for tech listings, or drain capital from smaller players? Are mega constellations and vertical integration the keys to long-term dominance, or will new entrants disrupt the status quo? More S&P Global content: Kagan Media & Telecom Summit 2026 Featured experts: Stefan Modrich, tech policy reporter for S&P Global Market Intelligence  Nick Lazzaro, capital markets reporter at S&P Global Market Intelligence Ikrama Ranjha, newswriter at S&P Global Market Intelligence Mark Gubagaras, newswriter at S&P Global Market Intelligence Iuri Struta, tech capital markets reporter at S&P Global Market Intelligence Sarah James, TMT News Lead at S&P Global Market Intelligence Credits: Host/Author: Mike Reynolds Producer/Editor: Sarah James www.spglobal.com www.spglobal.com/market-intelligence