SpaceX reports $14.6 billion in Q3 2026 revenue, up 161%, beating Wall Street forecasts as AI services and Starlink drive growth
NEW YORK: Elon Musk’s SpaceX reported a 161% surge in third-quarter revenue to $14.6 billion, exceeding Wall Street expectations as its artificial intelligence and satellite internet businesses expanded.
The company announced its results on October 20, 2026, reporting revenue above analysts’ estimates of $12.87 billion.
SpaceX also posted net income of $4.4 billion, compared with a $1.1 billion loss during the same period last year.
Adjusted earnings per share reached $0.35, more than double the $0.15 analysts expected.
AI business drives revenue growth
SpaceX’s Super Intelligence division emerged as its largest revenue contributor, generating $7.6 billion during the quarter.
The division benefited from growing demand for AI computing services, cloud infrastructure and applications.
Its performance exceeded market expectations of $6.3 billion.
Meanwhile, the company’s Connectivity division generated $5.2 billion, supported by Starlink’s expanding customer base and government contracts.
The Space division contributed another $1.8 billion, exceeding analysts’ forecasts of $1.43 billion.
Starlink and Starship expansion
SpaceX continued expanding its satellite network and developing its Starship rocket programme.
Starlink reached 13.6 million consumer subscribers, strengthening the company’s satellite broadband operations.
The company also reported its first revenue-generating Starship mission, which deployed 26 Starlink V3 satellites.
Each Starship launch could significantly increase satellite deployment capacity compared with existing Falcon 9 missions.
Investment spending rises
SpaceX increased capital expenditure to $19.6 billion during the quarter as it expanded AI computing infrastructure and space operations.
The company expects further investment as demand for advanced computing and satellite connectivity grows.
Adjusted EBITDA reached $8.8 billion, representing a 306% annual increase.
Impact to expect
SpaceX’s strong results highlight growing demand for AI infrastructure and satellite connectivity. However, rising investment costs could affect future cash flow.
