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Viasat Space42 deal brings up to $1 billion to Equatys, a shared satellite network targeting direct-to-device connectivity.
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The global space economy reached $686 billion in 2025 with commercial activity driving growth, and is projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2032. While individual space stocks carry significant risks including capital intensity, launch delays, and regulatory complexities, space ETFs offer diversified exposure across the space value chain. Several ETFs are highlighted as investment options for capturing long-term growth in this emerging sector.
AST SpaceMobile (ASTS) stock surged over 9% following SEC filings revealing director insider purchases and a new analyst Buy rating.
The Tema Space Innovators ETF (NASA) offers focused exposure to high-growth space companies but carries higher volatility (51% max drawdown) and fees (0.75%), while First Trust Indxx Aerospace & Defense ETF (MISL) provides broader diversification with lower costs (0.6%), stability, and dividend yield. NASA suits aggressive investors seeking outsized returns, while MISL appeals to conservative income-oriented investors preferring lower risk.
Space ETFs are entering a new phase as SPCX, RKLB and ASTS fuel demand for exposure to commercial launches, satellites and next-gen space infrastructure.
Space42 and Viasat have signed a binding agreement to establish Equatys, a neutral shared space and ground infrastructure platform for Direct-to-Device (D2D) and advanced Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) connectivity. The companies commit up to $1 billion in combined equity investments, with Space42 and Viasat each investing $400 million initially, and Space42 committing an additional $200 million in future funding rounds. Equatys will operate on a tower company model, enabling multiple satellite operators to share infrastructure while maintaining independent frequency rights and customer relationships. The platform is designed to scale to 2,800 satellites across 60 orbital planes and 3 altitude layers.
Space42 and Viasat have signed a binding agreement to establish Equatys, a joint space and ground infrastructure platform for global Direct-to-Device and advanced mobile satellite services. The companies commit up to $1 billion in combined equity, with Viasat serving as the primary technology contractor. The platform aims to leverage over 100 MHz of coordinated MSS spectrum and relationships with 400+ mobile operators worldwide to enable satellite connectivity on standard smartphones and IoT devices.