Space stocks to consider on the S&P 500 (and SpaceX isn't one of them)

Space stocks offer exposure to satellites, sensors, and launch services, yet SpaceX won’t join the S&P 500 before June 2027 at the earliest, limiting index trackers’ direct gains from the company. Investors may still pursue space-related bets through other names such as AST SpaceMobile, Iridium Communications, and Rocket Lab, while Honeywell provides a diversified play with aerospace exposure. Honeywell reported 2025 sales of $37.4 billion and adjusted EPS of $9.78, indicating resilience even as broader markets cool; risks include aerospace demand fluctuations and China exposure as the firm reshapes its portfolio. Private ownership remains robust, with Baillie Gifford’s Scottish Mortgage holding an estimated 19.3% of SpaceX, highlighting investor appetite for the sector beyond the S&P 500.