Better Space Stock to Buy Before 2026 Runs Out: SpaceX vs. Rocket Lab

SpaceX and Rocket Lab are compared as investment opportunities in the growing space economy. SpaceX dominates with 255 launches in 2025 versus Rocket Lab's 35, operates larger launch vehicles, and has diversified revenue streams including Starlink and AI investments. Rocket Lab offers pure-play space exposure with smaller specialized rockets and is acquiring Iridium Communications. Both stocks trade at high valuations (SpaceX at 110x and Rocket Lab at 82x price-to-sales), making them suitable only for well-diversified portfolios.