The process by which satellites, space probes, and other craft are launched from the surface of Earth into space requires equipment, machinery, hardware, and a means, usually a rocket vehicle of some sort, by which these materials are lifted into space. The businesses that exist to service these launching needs form an international space transportation industry. That launch industry, also referred to as space launch service providers, has been estimated to generate $8 billion in total annual sales, with the United States earning about half of that amount. By comparison, the total U.S. sales of all aerospace equipment, including aircraft, missiles, and other space equipment amounted to $151 billion in 1999.

The space launch services industry is currently dominated by three firms: Arianespace in Europe, Boeing Launch Services in California, and International Launch Services of Reston, Virginia, which is owned by Lockheed Martin Corporation of Littleton, Colorado. While...