TOTAL VOLUME:
$142.3b
24H VOL:
$107,419,736
24H TRANSACTIONS:
2,643,541,936
OPEN INTEREST:
$1,594,026,835
471,138
Markets across
35,775
events
MATCHED EVENTS:
2,926
PLATFORM COVERAGE:
5
Polymarket:
38%
VS.
Kalshi:
62%
$
This market tracks the number of successful SpaceX Starship launches reaching space – specifically an altitude of 62 miles above sea level – during the 2026 calendar year. Currently, the consensus probability that more than 3 launches will reach space in 2026 is 91.0%. This prediction is an aggregation of views from Kalshi and Polymarket, and will resolve based on SpaceX’s official launch video feeds and credible reporting. Keep an eye on the first planned Starship launch window of 2026, as early successes or failures will heavily influence market expectations.
This market will resolve according to the number of SpaceX Starship launches successfully reaching an altitude of 62 miles above sea level between January 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026, 11:59 PM ET. Otherwise, this market will resolve to "No". A successful launch is defined as the Starship taking off from its launchpad and reaching a minimum altitude of 62 miles above sea level. Any subsequent anomaly (e.g., an explosion) after the vehicle reaches 62 miles will have no bearing on the outcome. The primary resolution source for this market will be SpaceX’s official video feed of the launches (e.g., via SpaceX YouTube Channel), as well as secondary video feeds or written reports if necessary. However, a consensus of credible reporting may also be used.
This event comprises multiple markets tracking cumulative thresholds of Starship launches reaching space in 2026. A Starship launch is counted as reaching space if its maximum altitude exceeds 62 miles (approximately 100 kilometers) above sea level at any point during flight. Each market resolves Yes if the total number of qualifying launches exceeds its specified threshold—ranging from above 3 launches through above 12 launches. The 62-mile altitude standard aligns with the internationally recognized Kármán line boundary of space. All launches must occur within the 2026 calendar year. Resolution is based on confirmed flight data from SpaceX or official aerospace tracking sources documenting the maximum altitude achieved during each flight attempt.
Prediction market odds often provide a distinct signal compared to traditional analyst forecasts. Analysts may be subject to biases or incentives that influence their predictions, while this market reflects the aggregated beliefs of a diverse group of traders who have ‘skin in the game.’ Currently, the implied probability from this market suggests a higher chance of fewer successful launches than many initial analyst projections. This difference can be attributed to traders incorporating a wider range of factors, including technical challenges, regulatory hurdles, and potential delays inherent in complex space programs. The dynamic pricing mechanism ensures the market continually adjusts to new information.
Polymarket and Kalshi can show different implied probabilities for the same outcome because of liquidity, fee structure, participant mix, and how each venue defines the contract. Prices on Polymarket and Kalshi can diverge due to several factors, including differing user bases, trading volumes, and market-specific rules. Polymarket currently favors Will less than 5 SpaceX Starship launches successfully reach Space in 2026? at 55.0%, while Kalshi leans toward Will above 3 Starship launches reach space in 2026? at 91.0%. Each platform attracts a unique set of traders with varying risk appetites and information access. Furthermore, liquidity levels can influence price discovery; a more liquid market tends to have tighter spreads and more accurate pricing. Differences in trading fees and platform features can also contribute to these discrepancies, creating arbitrage opportunities for informed traders.
This market resolves around Jan 1, 2027, with the outcome confirmed once the event is verifiable from credible public reporting. The number of SpaceX Starship launches that successfully reach space during the calendar year 2026 will be assessed based on publicly available data from official sources, such as SpaceX announcements and independent verification by space tracking organizations. The resolution will be based on whether the launch achieved a trajectory that is generally recognized as reaching space, as defined by the Karman line or similar established standards. The final outcome will be determined objectively based on these verifiable criteria.
Several signals or events could significantly impact this market. Successful or failed static fire tests of the Starship system, updates on regulatory approvals from the FAA, and announcements regarding launch schedules would all be key catalysts. Unexpected technical difficulties or delays in engine development could lower expectations, while positive test results and expedited approvals could increase them. Major news regarding competitor launch programs could also influence trading activity. Any significant change in SpaceX’s stated launch cadence or public statements from Elon Musk regarding Starship’s progress would likely cause substantial movement in the market.