RKLB, LUNR, FLY – Analyst Sees Upside For These Stocks As Lunar Boom Drives Fresh Optimism For Space Players

• The analyst noted that FireFly Aerospace’s SciTec acquisition could enhance its foothold in defense-focused space technology.
• The Lanteris deal is expected to expand Intuitive Machines into a broader, end-to-end, and national-security services provider, according to Roth Capital. 
• The firm said Rocket Lab’s Electron program entered 2026 strong, with about 20% growth in launches expected.  

Roth Capital has turned more bullish on space-focused companies, including Firefly Aerospace Inc. (FLY), Intuitive Machines Inc. (LUNR), and Rocket Lab Corp. (RKLB), citing strong demand trends tied to lunar exploration and defense spending. 

Analyst Suji Desilva increased the price target for FireFly Aerospace to $60 from $35, maintaining a ‘Buy’ rating, according to TheFly. The firm pointed to expanding opportunities driven by government initiatives and recent acquisitions.

Firefly Aerospace’s Growth Potential

The analyst emphasized the company’s progress in scaling its launch and spacecraft operations. FireFly’s acquisition of SciTec is expected to strengthen its position in defense-related space technology, aligning with increases in government spending. 

A key catalyst, according to Roth, is NASA’s plan to ramp up lunar cargo missions, potentially reaching a monthly cadence in the coming years.

Firefly Aerospace stock inched over 0.3% in Friday’s premarket. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around the stock jumped to ‘bullish’ from ‘bearish’ territory the previous day. Message volume turned to ‘high’ from ‘low’ levels in 24 hours. 

Intuitive Machines Positioned For Expansion

Roth also boosted its price target on Intuitive Machines to $35 from $25, implying a 28% upside potential to the stock’s closing price on Thursday. The firm sees the company as well placed to benefit from rising investment in lunar exploration. 

Intuitive Machines’ recent Lanteris acquisition is expected to enhance operational capabilities while unlocking efficiencies. Analysts believe the combined entity can broaden its offerings beyond civil and lunar missions to include national security programs, expanding into end-to-end services.

Intuitive Machines' stock traded 0.8% higher in Friday’s premarket. 

Roth raised its price target on Rocket Lab USA Inc. (RKLB) to $100 from $90. The firm pointed to continued traction in both launch services and space systems. 

The company’s Electron rocket program has begun 2026 on solid footing, with projections for roughly 20% annual launch growth, the firm said. Rising defense budgets and demand for space infrastructure are expected to further support long-term expansion.

Rocket Lab USA stock has gained over 18% year-to-date. 

Also See: Dan Ives Sees Tech Stocks Surging 15% By Year-End On AI Boom

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.