Space stocks rocket higher as sector optimism gains steam into 2026

Group 1 - Space stocks experienced significant gains, with Firefly Aerospace rising 13% and Intuitive Machines increasing by approximately 7% [1] - Rocket Lab saw a 10% increase, following a nearly 18% gain from the previous Friday, after announcing an $816 million satellite deal with the U.S. Space Development Agency [2] - The sector's rally is attributed to optimism surrounding SpaceX's planned initial public offering next year and increased government interest in space initiatives [2]