The space technology industry is facing a serious launch bottleneck. According to New Scientist, a shortage of rockets is creating a crisis for companies that need to get satellites into orbit. The problem is not a lack of demand but a lack of available vehicles.
The crisis stems from several converging factors. SpaceX, the dominant launch provider, has shifted its priorities, leaving fewer slots for external customers. The war in Ukraine has also removed Russian rockets from the commercial market, and there are few competitors able to fill the gap.
The consequences are likely to be long-lasting. The article reports that the launch crisis might last years, meaning satellite companies may face delays in deployment and increased uncertainty. Without a rapid expansion of new rocket options, the bottleneck will continue to constrain the industry.