Everyone’s talking about SpaceX. With Starship test flights making headlines and IPO rumors swirling, investors are itching to get in. But here’s the truth: you don’t need to wait for an IPO to profit from the new space age.
Space-focused ETFs already own pieces of the ecosystem — including indirect exposure to SpaceX through suppliers, partners, and innovators — while spreading risk across dozens of public companies. Here are the 5 space ETFs every investor should know in 2026.
1. Tema Space Innovators ETF (NASA)
The hottest new name in space investing. Since launching in early 2026, NASA has become one of the fastest-growing thematic ETFs ever, recently surpassing $2 billion in AUM. Its actively managed strategy includes meaningful private-market exposure to SpaceX alongside public innovators in satellites, propulsion, and space infrastructure. If you want maximum conviction in the space theme, this is the one.
2. Procure Space ETF (UFO)
The original pure-play space ETF. UFO tracks the S-Network Space Index and delivers concentrated exposure to satellite operators, launch providers, and ground infrastructure. Top holdings regularly feature Rocket Lab, Viasat, Iridium, and Planet Labs. With AUM now over $1 billion, UFO remains the cleanest way to invest directly in commercial space activity.
3. ARK Space Exploration & Innovation ETF (ARKX)
Cathie Wood’s space bet. ARKX blends orbital innovation with defense tech and autonomous systems. Expect names like Rocket Lab, Kratos, and other disruptive players. Actively managed with a high-growth tilt, this fund is perfect for investors who want aggressive exposure to tomorrow’s space leaders.
4. iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF (ITA)
The giant with stability. With over $12 billion in AUM and a rock-solid track record, ITA gives you exposure to aerospace giants like Lockheed Martin, RTX, Boeing, and Northrop Grumman — companies whose space divisions are growing rapidly. Lower fees (0.38%) and broad government contract tailwinds make it the defensive anchor for any space allocation.
5. SPDR S&P Kensho Final Frontiers ETF (ROKT)
The frontier thinker. ROKT targets companies pushing boundaries in space, deep-sea, and advanced tech. Its rules-based approach captures emerging winners across the final frontiers. Smaller in size but high in thematic purity — a great satellite holding for aggressive portfolios.
Why ETFs Beat Chasing a Single SpaceX IPO
Waiting for a SpaceX IPO could mean missing years of growth. Even after it lists, single-stock risk remains enormous. These ETFs deliver instant diversification, daily liquidity, and professional management — all while capturing multiple winners across the space value chain.
• NASA — Highest growth conviction + SpaceX exposure
• UFO — Purest commercial space play
• ARKX — Disruptive innovation focus
• ITA — Stable, large-cap aerospace anchor
• ROKT — High-conviction frontier bet
The Bigger Picture
The space economy is forecast to reach $1.8–3 trillion by 2035. Reusable rockets have slashed launch costs by over 90%. Satellite internet is connecting billions. Lunar bases, space manufacturing, and defense constellations are moving from concept to reality. The multi-year runway is massive.
Smart investors aren’t putting everything into one unlisted rocket company — they’re building diversified space allocations through these ETFs right now.
Ready to Get Positioned?
Head to TopSpaceETFs.com for daily updated rankings, AUM figures, yields, and full holdings of every major space ETF. Compare them side-by-side in seconds.
Explore our sister sites for more thematic and income ideas:
- TopDividendETFs.com — Best dividend ETFs
- GrowthETFs.com — High-growth thematic investing
- MonthlyETFs.com — Monthly paying income ETFs
- WeeklyETFs.com — Weekly dividend strategies
SpaceX may be the headline — but these five ETFs are where you can actually invest today.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always conduct your own research or consult a financial advisor. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Data as of June 2026.