VCs invest billions in space, valuing operations over rocket science

Venture capitalists without aerospace degrees are increasingly investing billions in space startups, shifting focus from rocket development to lunar mining and orbital manufacturing. This trend is driven by reduced launch costs, making space accessible for application-focused businesses. Geopolitical tensions and AI advancements also boost investment in defense-related and geospatial analytics startups. Traditional space investments required decades for returns, but current VCs anticipate liquidity within standard 10-year fund horizons, reflecting a changing landscape for space sector investment.