California has long been a hub for innovation in the space tech and aerospace industries, with tons of companies and investors driving advancements in the sector. Based on data from the Space Impulse Market Intelligence Platform, there is a total of 939 space entities based in the state, including investors, companies, government organizations, and universities.
Of course there are the usual suspects of top, well known players in the state like SpaceX, Planet Labs, and Varda – though it should be noted that while SpaceX still operates and is headquartered in California, it moved its state of incorporation to Texas earlier this year. But it’s safe to say that there are many more California-based space entities that are making huge waves in the industry. Check out some of the space companies and investors who are propelling both the space tech ecosystem and the state of California forward below.
‘
Image credit: Space Impulse Market Intelligence Platform Map View
Space Companies in California
Anduril
Anduril is a defense technology company that specializes in developing cutting-edge products for national security applications. Headquartered in Irvine, the company has gained recognition for its innovative approach to solving complex challenges by developing advanced products and solutions that help detect, track, and intercept unmanned aircraft and drones. Anduril’s offerings include advanced surveillance systems, autonomous drones, and AI-powered software for data analysis and decision-making.
Space Impulse Market Intelligence Platform Quick Stats:
- Founded: 2017
- Total disclosed funding: $2,171,000,000 USD
- Latest funding date: February 20, 2024
- Primary classification: Space services
- Secondary classification: Space software
- Unique patents: Maritime vehicle systems and methods
Relativity Space
Relativity Space is a Long Beach-based pioneering aerospace manufacturer that is revolutionizing the way rockets are built. The company utilizes cutting-edge 3D printing technologies to produce entire rocket components, enabling faster and more cost-effective manufacturing processes. Relativity Space’s flagship product, the Terran R rocket, is designed for medium-to-heavy lift missions, catering to the growing demand for space infrastructure.
Space Impulse Market Intelligence Platform Quick Stats:
- Founded: 2016
- Total disclosed funding: $1,335,720,000 USD
- Latest funding date: February 03, 2022
- Primary classification: Launch Infrastructure
- Secondary classification: Launcher
- Unique patents: Smart node devices that provide an interface for multiple sensors and/or actuators
Viasat
Viasat, headquartered in Carlsbad, is a global communications company that provides high-speed satellite broadband services and secure networking systems. With a focus on delivering reliable connectivity solutions, Viasat has played a pivotal role in enabling internet access in remote and underserved areas by designing, developing, and manufacturing satellite systems, including spacecraft, ground stations, and antennas. The company’s satellite network and ground infrastructure support a wide range of applications, including residential, commercial, government, and military communications.
Space Impulse Market Intelligence Platform Quick Stats:
- Founded: 1986
- Market capitalization: $2.15 Billion USD
- Latest funding date: September 13, 2023
- Primary classification: Constellations
- Secondary classification: Space Communication
- Unique patents: Viasat has hundreds of patents including methods, systems, and devices for mobile satellite beam deconfliction. Explore the company’s many other patents on the SIMI Platform.
Influential Space Investors in California
Airbus Ventures
Airbus Ventures is the venture capital arm of Airbus, a leading global aerospace company. Based in Menlo Park, Airbus Ventures invests in startups and emerging technologies across a range of developmental stages, including seed-stage, early-stage, later-stage, and growth-stage companies. The firm’s investment interests span several sectors, encompassing autonomy, connectivity, electrification, industrial efficiency, materials, new space, and security.
Space Impulse Market Intelligence Platform Quick Stats:
- Managing partner: Thomas d’Halluin
- Founded: 2016
- Type: Corporate VC
- Portfolio companies include: Solestial, LeoLabs, Hawkeye 360
Founders Fund
Founders Fund is a leading venture capital firm based in San Francisco, known for its investments in disruptive technologies and ambitious startups. The firm has backed several space tech companies, recognizing the potential for innovation and growth in the space sector. Founders Fund’s portfolio includes companies working on reusable rocket systems, satellite constellations, and space exploration technologies.
Space Impulse Market Intelligence Platform Quick Stats:
- Managing partner: Delian Asparouhov
- Founded: 2005
- Type: Venture Capital
- Portfolio companies include: Northwood Space, Nominal, Varda Space
Khosla Ventures
Khosla Ventures, headquartered in Menlo Park, is a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage companies across various sectors, including space tech and aerospace. The firm has a strong focus on supporting innovative technologies that have the potential to create significant societal impact. Khosla Ventures’ portfolio includes companies working on sustainable aviation, satellite communications, and space exploration technologies.
Space Impulse Market Intelligence Platform Quick Stats:
- Managing director: Samir Kaul
- Founded: 2004
- Type: Venture Capital
- Portfolio companies include: Hermeus, Rocket Lab, SES AI
California’s space tech and aerospace ecosystem continues to thrive, driven by the collective efforts of pioneering companies and visionary investors. Want access to more details on space tech industry data in California and around the globe? Check out the Space Impulse Market Intelligence Platform, the world’s largest, curated dataset on the Space industry from all the way back to 1987. Get in touch at [email protected] to learn more.
Share this article:
