Southern California, August 30, 2025
News Summary
Southern California’s aerospace industry is witnessing a robust revival thanks to innovative startups and significant job growth. Companies like Vast, Varda Space Industries, and AstroForge are leading projects in space exploration, pharmaceuticals, and asteroid mining. The sector added 11,000 new jobs over the past year, contributing to an average salary of $141,110. This resurgence ties back to the region’s storied aerospace history, which continues to inspire new enterprises and attract venture capital funding.
Southern California is witnessing a remarkable resurgence in its aerospace industry, driven by a new wave of startups and a significant increase in job growth. The region has seen the emergence of innovative companies that are poised to redefine space exploration and technology.
Vast, a startup based in Long Beach, is leading the charge by fabricating what may become the first commercial space station, named Haven-1. This project is intended to replace the retiring International Space Station (ISS) and aims to begin launching its first small station next year. Vast is also seeking a contract from NASA to eventually take over some of the ISS’s functions, competing against established firms like Blue Origin.
Another significant player, Varda Space Industries, located in El Segundo, has made strides in advanced pharmaceutical production. The company has successfully grown molecular crystals in microgravity, which could enhance the effectiveness of injections for cancer patients. Varda has attracted $329 million in venture capital, focusing on automated laboratories that can produce purer drugs in space.
Meanwhile, AstroForge, situated in Seal Beach, is working on an ambitious project to mine asteroids for platinum, which could be valued at billions of dollars. The combination of innovation and economic potential positions these startups as significant contributors to the region’s aerospace landscape.
The aerospace economy in Southern California has gained momentum, marking an increase of 11,000 new jobs over the past year, with average salaries considerably exceeding the county’s average wage. According to the LA Economic Development Corporation, the area’s aerospace and defense sectors currently employ more than 58,700 individuals, with an average annual salary of $141,110.
The foundation for this growth is deeply rooted in the region’s prestigious aerospace history. Southern California was responsible for major aerospace achievements, including the Apollo capsule, space shuttles, and the X-15 rocket plane. Although SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk in 2002, has relocated much of its operations to Texas, its groundbreaking work in low-cost reusable rocket technology continues to inspire new enterprises in the area. Approximately 128 companies connected to former SpaceX employees have been launched, with a majority—63 companies—based in Southern California.
Long Beach specifically has transformed its aerospace manufacturing landscape following the closure of the Boeing C-17 production line, actively attracting advanced manufacturers. Notably, Relativity Space has expanded operations in the city with its development of 3-D printed rocket engines and significant growth through new headquarters.
Funding from high-profile investors in Silicon Valley, such as Peter Thiel, alongside various venture capital firms, is fueling the growth of these space-related startups. The Smoky Hollow neighborhood in Long Beach has evolved from a former refinery area into a thriving hub for aerospace and advanced manufacturing, greatly aided by technological advancements and deliberate rezoning aimed at attracting high-quality manufacturers.
As companies like Rocket Lab and Relativity Space continue to expand operations, the region is becoming a focal point for aerospace innovation. Rocket Lab is pushing for record launches while Relativity recently secured numerous satellite launch contracts. Southern California’s substantial pool of engineering talent remains a significant draw, as new startups compete for skilled labor from local universities.
The future of space-related initiatives in Southern California promises to push the boundaries of technology and could lead to transformative developments in both aerospace engineering and pharmaceuticals.
FAQ
What is the main focus of the aerospace startups in Southern California?
The startups are focused on innovation in space exploration, including the development of commercial space stations, advancements in pharmaceuticals, and asteroid mining for precious metals.
How many jobs were added to the aerospace sector in Southern California recently?
The aerospace and defense industries added 11,000 new jobs over the past year.
What is the average salary for aerospace workers in Southern California?
The average salary for workers in the aerospace sector stands at $141,110, significantly higher than the county average wage.
Which notable companies are contributing to the aerospace industry’s growth in Southern California?
Notable companies include Vast, Varda Space Industries, AstroForge, Relativity Space, and Rocket Lab.
Key Features of Southern California’s Aerospace Industry Growth
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Startups | Vast, Varda Space Industries, AstroForge, and others leading innovative projects. |
| Job Growth | 11,000 new jobs added in the aerospace and defense sectors. |
| Average Salaries | $141,110 average salary for aerospace workers. |
| Investment | Attraction of $329 million in venture capital funding for space-related businesses. |
| Engineering Talent | Strong pool of engineers competing for skilled labor from universities. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: How the New Space Economy is Transforming Southern California
- KFI AM 640: Space Startups Boost Southern California Economy
- Payload Space: SoCal Will Be Space Central with or Without Elon, Experts Say
- McKinsey & Company: Space: The $1.8 Trillion Dollar Opportunity for Global Economic Growth
- Victorville Daily Press: Southern California Logistics Airport a Victorville Economic Power
- Wikipedia: Aerospace Industry
- Google Search: Aerospace startups Southern California
- Google Scholar: Southern California aerospace jobs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aerospace
- Google News: Southern California aerospace industry
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
