Space Innovation Between Continuity and Disruption: New Space Through the Lens of European and North American Patents (1990–2024)

This article examines the reconfiguration of the space industry in the era of New Space, focusing on the evolution of knowledge bases, the differentiation between new entrants and established actors, and civil-military dynamics. Using a sample of firms identified through Crunchbase, we draw on patent data and graph theory tools to compare technological proximity between New Space firms and historical players. The analysis highlights a growing hybridization between space technologies, ICTs, and AI, as well as a stronger openness of new entrants to cross-sectoral innovation. Established actors appear to be partially shifting toward market-oriented innovation strategies, while defense firms remain relatively isolated, still guided by closed production logics. Finally, an econometric model will explore the influence of firm size, age, and location on the degree of integration into New Space dynamics.