The commercial space sector is no longer science fiction. With reusable rockets, satellite mega-constellations, lunar missions, and massive government contracts, the space economy is projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2035. For investors seeking exposure without picking individual stocks, space-focused ETFs offer diversified, professionally managed access to this high-growth theme.
In this comprehensive guide, we highlight the 10 top space ETFs to consider in 2026, drawing from the latest data on the TopSpaceETFs.com rankings. We focus on AUM, strategy, holdings, fees, and why each fund deserves attention right now.
1. Tema Space Innovators ETF (NASA)
Launched in late March 2026, NASA has quickly become the largest dedicated space ETF, surpassing $1.3 billion in AUM in record time and recently approaching or exceeding $2–3 billion. Its standout feature is meaningful indirect exposure to SpaceX via private market holdings. This actively managed fund targets companies driving space infrastructure, satellite technology, and exploration breakthroughs. With massive inflows, NASA is the hottest name for investors seeking cutting-edge space exposure.
2. Procure Space ETF (UFO)
UFO, the original pure-play space ETF, continues to thrive. It tracks the S-Network Space Index and delivers concentrated exposure to satellite operators, launch providers, and space infrastructure. Top holdings typically include Rocket Lab, Viasat, Iridium, and Planet Labs. Having recently crossed $1 billion in AUM, UFO remains the go-to fund for direct commercial space economy exposure.
3. ARK Space Exploration & Innovation ETF (ARKX)
Cathie Wood’s ARKX combines space exploration with defense and innovation themes. This actively managed fund includes Rocket Lab, Kratos Defense, and other disruptive enablers. With nearly $1 billion in AUM and a proven track record in high-growth innovation, ARKX suits aggressive, growth-oriented investors who accept higher volatility.
4. iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF (ITA)
For broader and more stable exposure, ITA stands as the category giant with over $10–13 billion in AUM. It heavily weights defense and aerospace leaders like Lockheed Martin, RTX, Boeing, and GE Aerospace — many with substantial space divisions. Its lower 0.38% expense ratio and long track record make it ideal for conservative investors seeking government-backed space tailwinds.
5. SPDR S&P Kensho Final Frontiers ETF (ROKT)
ROKT focuses on companies at the frontiers of technology, including space, deep-sea, and advanced robotics. Its rules-based methodology provides diversified thematic exposure with strong recent momentum. While smaller in AUM, it offers high-conviction purity for dedicated space investors.
Additional Strong Contenders (6–10)
- Roundhill Space & Technology ETF (MARS) — Broad exposure to space economy and enabling technologies with strong recent performance.
- Global X Space Tech ETF (ORBX) — Newer fund targeting commercialization of space tech with solid growth potential.
- VanEck Space Innovators UCITS ETF (JEDI) — Leading European option with significant assets and global space focus.
- SPDR S&P Aerospace & Defense ETF (XAR) — Equal-weighted aerospace and defense play with meaningful space overlap.
- Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF (PPA) — Another large, established fund offering broad sector exposure.
Why Invest in Space ETFs Now?
Multiple powerful tailwinds are converging: dramatically lower launch costs from reusable rockets, exploding demand for satellite broadband (Starlink and competitors), growing NASA/ESA commercial partnerships, record defense spending, and ongoing SpaceX IPO speculation. ETFs let you capture the entire theme while reducing single-stock risk.
Comparison Table of Top Space ETFs (Approximate mid-2026 data)
| ETF (Ticker) | AUM | Expense Ratio | Style | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tema NASA | $1.3B–$3B+ | 0.75% | Active | Innovators + SpaceX exposure |
| Procure UFO | $1B+ | 0.75% | Passive | Pure-play space |
| ARK ARKX | ~$900M+ | 0.75% | Active | Space + Defense Innovation |
| iShares ITA | $10B–$13B+ | 0.38% | Passive | Aerospace & Defense |
| SPDR ROKT | Smaller | 0.45% | Passive | Final Frontiers Tech |
Investment Considerations for 2026
Space investing involves higher volatility due to technological risks, regulatory changes, and capital intensity. Most advisors recommend diversifying across 2–3 ETFs. Pure-play options like NASA and UFO offer higher upside potential but larger drawdowns, while broader funds like ITA provide more stability.
Always check the latest holdings, AUM, and performance on TopSpaceETFs.com, where data updates daily. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The sector remains early-stage with strong multi-year potential for patient investors.
Conclusion: Position Yourself for the New Space Age
2026 is shaping up as a pivotal year as commercial space matures. Whether you chase explosive growth with NASA and UFO or prefer the steadier path of ITA and other aerospace giants, these ETFs provide proven vehicles for participating in humanity’s expansion beyond Earth.
Bookmark TopSpaceETFs.com for daily rankings, AUM updates, dividend yields, and in-depth comparisons. Also check our sister sites for more thematic opportunities:
- TopDividendETFs.com — Best dividend ETFs ranked
- MonthlyETFs.com — Monthly paying income ETFs
- WeeklyETFs.com — Weekly dividend payers
- GrowthETFs.com — High-growth thematic funds
The final frontier of investing is here — don’t miss liftoff.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always conduct your own due diligence or consult a financial advisor. Data as of mid-June 2026 and subject to change. Investments involve risk, including possible loss of principal.