Starship black rocket lifts off from texas plains
SpaceX Starship launches toward orbit for the first time.
  • A few years ago, several space-launch companies were coming on the scene, Bank of America said.
  • But today, just two companies have proven to have consistent and reliable operations, analysts wrote.
  • Meanwhile, most other companies have had trouble raising capital in the risk-averse environment.

Although the SpaceX Starship exploded Thursday during its first attempt to reach orbit, Elon Musk's space company remains a top provider of launch services in what once looked to be a more crowded field.

Just a few years ago, several launch companies were coming to market, raising expectations they would lower costs and make space more accessible, according to a Bank of America note.