Core Insights - The space sector is experiencing significant activity with retail investors focusing on new contracts, acquisitions, and upcoming launches [1] Group 1: Firefly Aerospace - Firefly Aerospace announced the acquisition of SciTec, Inc. for approximately $855 million, consisting of $300 million in cash and $555 million in Firefly shares priced at $50 each [2] - SciTec is a government contractor for the U.S. Department of War, and this acquisition is expected to enhance Firefly's space services by integrating defense software analytics and remote sensing capabilities [3] Group 2: Rocket Lab - Rocket Lab's stock reached a new 52-week high, driven by multiple contract wins, including a deal with the Institute for Q-shu Pioneers of Space for three dedicated Electron missions, increasing total upcoming launches for iQPS to seven [3] - The company secured a landmark 10-launch contract with Synspective, marking its largest single-customer order to date, with the next mission launch window opening on October 14 [4] - Rocket Lab shares have increased by more than 25% over the past five days [4] Group 3: AST SpaceMobile - AST SpaceMobile's stock surged following a definitive commercial agreement with Verizon Communications, aimed at enabling direct-to-cellular connectivity for Verizon customers [5] - The partnership is expected to extend Verizon's network coverage and enhance existing services, with ASTS stock gaining over 135% in the past month and 315% in 2025 [5] Group 4: Sidus Space - Sidus Space was awarded a contract under the Tobyhanna Army Depot Industrial Multiple Award Task Order Contract program, valued at $21 million over five years for critical component fabrication and services [6][7] - The contract includes individual task orders capped at $750,000, and SIDU stock has gained 20% over the past five days despite a 6% decline on Thursday [7]