Over the next decade, over a hundred thousand satellites will be launched into orbit.

But industry insiders are panicking, because of a worldwide shortage of rockets and companies who can launch them.

A closer look at the financials of SpaceX points to a key reason why: rocket launches are expensive and require massive commitments in capital and staff, while satellite operators make most of the money in the industry.

China is ramping up its launch capability, with several companies building reusable rockets that can compete with SpaceX.

But strong legal restrictions are in place against Western companies partnering with Chinese firms.