Key Insights
The global rocket propulsion market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing space exploration activities, both governmental and commercial. A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 8.50% from 2019 to 2033 signifies a significant expansion, projected to reach a substantial market value. Key drivers include the rising demand for satellite launches, the increasing popularity of reusable rockets lowering launch costs, and the burgeoning space tourism sector. Technological advancements in propulsion systems, such as the development of more efficient and powerful engines, further fuel this expansion. Market segmentation reveals a dynamic landscape, with solid, liquid, and hybrid propulsion systems competing for market share across civil, commercial, and military applications. While precise figures for each segment and region aren't provided, the data suggests a strong presence of established players like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Aerojet Rocketdyne alongside emerging companies in the Asia-Pacific region, indicating a geographically diverse market. The market faces certain restraints, primarily related to the high development and manufacturing costs of advanced propulsion systems and stringent regulations governing space launches. However, ongoing innovation and increasing private sector investment are mitigating these challenges.
The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established aerospace giants and innovative startups. North America currently holds a significant market share, driven by the substantial investment in space exploration initiatives and a well-developed aerospace industry infrastructure. However, the Asia-Pacific region is rapidly emerging as a key player, fueled by significant government investments and the growth of domestic space programs. Europe also maintains a substantial presence, contributing to the overall global market. The forecast period (2025-2033) is expected to witness even stronger growth due to the anticipated increase in satellite constellations, the ongoing development of reusable launch vehicles, and the potential for new applications of rocket propulsion technology in other sectors, such as hypersonic flight. This dynamic market presents significant opportunities for both established companies and new entrants, provided they can navigate the inherent challenges of high costs and regulatory hurdles.

Rocket Propulsion Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Rocket Propulsion Market, encompassing market dynamics, growth trends, regional analysis, product landscape, key players, and future outlook. The report covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with a focus on the forecast period of 2025-2033 and a base year of 2025. The market is segmented by type (Solid, Liquid, Hybrid) and end-user (Civil and Commercial, Military). The total market size in 2025 is estimated at xx Million USD, projected to reach xx Million USD by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of xx%.
Parent Market: Aerospace and Defense Industry Child Market: Space Launch Systems
Rocket Propulsion Market Market Dynamics & Structure
This section analyzes the competitive landscape, technological advancements, regulatory environment, and market trends influencing the rocket propulsion market. The market exhibits moderate concentration, with key players holding significant shares. Technological innovation, driven by the need for improved efficiency, reusability, and payload capacity, is a major growth driver. Stringent safety and environmental regulations shape market dynamics. The increasing adoption of electric propulsion systems presents a significant competitive substitute. The military sector remains a dominant end-user, while the civil and commercial sectors are experiencing robust growth, fueled by increased space exploration and satellite deployment activities.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 5 players holding approximately xx% market share in 2025.
- Technological Innovation: Focus on reusable rockets, electric propulsion, and advanced materials.
- Regulatory Framework: Stringent safety and environmental regulations influence product development and deployment.
- Competitive Substitutes: Electric propulsion and alternative launch systems.
- M&A Activity: xx major M&A deals observed between 2019-2024, indicating consolidation trends.
Rocket Propulsion Market Growth Trends & Insights
The Rocket Propulsion market experienced significant growth during the historical period (2019-2024), driven by increasing space exploration activities, commercial satellite launches, and defense spending. The market is expected to continue its robust expansion throughout the forecast period (2025-2033), propelled by advancements in rocket propulsion technologies, such as the development of reusable launch vehicles and the adoption of hybrid propulsion systems. The rising demand for small satellite launches and the growing interest in space tourism are also contributing to the market's growth. The adoption rate of solid propellant systems has remained high due to their reliability and cost-effectiveness, particularly in smaller launch vehicles. The market penetration of hybrid and liquid propulsion systems is increasing due to their superior performance characteristics.
- Market Size Evolution: From xx Million USD in 2019 to xx Million USD in 2024, projecting xx Million USD in 2033.
- CAGR: xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033).
- Market Penetration: Solid Propellant systems maintaining dominant share; Hybrid and Liquid systems showing increasing penetration.
- Technological Disruptions: Reusable rockets and electric propulsion significantly impacting the market.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Rocket Propulsion Market
North America currently dominates the Rocket Propulsion Market, driven by significant government investments in space exploration and defense, along with a strong presence of major players. Europe and Asia are also important regions, with strong growth potential in Asia-Pacific fueled by expanding space programs and increasing private sector investments. Within the segments, the Liquid propulsion systems segment holds the largest market share due to its superior performance and ability to handle larger payloads. The military sector remains the largest end-user, followed by the rapidly growing civil and commercial sector.
- Leading Region: North America (Holding approximately xx% market share in 2025)
- Key Drivers in North America: Strong government funding for space programs, established aerospace industry, and presence of major players.
- Growth Potential in Asia-Pacific: Expanding space programs, increasing private sector investments, and rising government spending.
- Dominant Segment (Type): Liquid Propulsion (holding approximately xx% market share in 2025)
- Dominant Segment (End-User): Military (holding approximately xx% market share in 2025)
Rocket Propulsion Market Product Landscape
The Rocket Propulsion market is characterized by continuous innovation in propulsion technology. Key product advancements include the development of more efficient and reusable engines, enhanced propellant formulations, and improved control systems. These innovations focus on increasing payload capacity, reducing launch costs, and enhancing reliability and safety. The integration of advanced materials and manufacturing processes is also driving product development. Unique selling propositions include enhanced performance, reduced emissions, increased reusability, and cost-effectiveness.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Rocket Propulsion Market
Key Drivers:
- Increased space exploration activities: Growing demand for satellite launches and interplanetary missions.
- Technological advancements: Reusable rockets, advanced propellants, and electric propulsion systems.
- Government initiatives and funding: Increased investment in space exploration and defense programs.
Key Challenges and Restraints:
- High development and manufacturing costs: This limits market entry for smaller players.
- Stringent safety and environmental regulations: Compliance can be expensive and time-consuming.
- Supply chain disruptions: Dependence on specific materials and components can impact production.
- Competitive pressure: Intense competition among established players and new entrants. Market share competition leads to price wars impacting profitability.
Emerging Opportunities in Rocket Propulsion Market
- Miniaturized propulsion systems: Growing demand for small satellite launches and CubeSats.
- Electric propulsion: Increasing adoption for satellite maneuvering and long-duration missions.
- Green propellants: Growing focus on reducing environmental impact of rocket launches.
- Space tourism: Increasing demand for reusable launch vehicles for commercial space travel.
Growth Accelerators in the Rocket Propulsion Market Industry
Technological breakthroughs, such as the development of fully reusable rockets and advanced propulsion systems, are driving market growth. Strategic partnerships between government agencies, private companies, and research institutions are fostering innovation and accelerating market expansion. Expanding global space programs and increasing private sector investment are further bolstering market growth. The increasing demand for satellite-based services, such as communication and navigation, is creating significant market opportunities.
Key Players Shaping the Rocket Propulsion Market Market
- Space Exploration Technologies Corp
- Land Space Technology Co Ltd
- Antrix Corporation Limited
- Aerojet Rocketdyne
- Safran SA
- NPO Energomash
- IHI Corporation
- Rocket Lab USA Inc
- Blue Origin Federation LLC
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd
Notable Milestones in Rocket Propulsion Market Sector
- 2020: SpaceX successfully launches and lands Starship prototype.
- 2021: Blue Origin completes successful New Shepard flight.
- 2022: Rocket Lab successfully launches Electron rocket from a private launch complex.
- 2023: Several major mergers and acquisitions in the rocket propulsion sector reshape the competitive landscape. (Specific examples need further research to add actual dates).
In-Depth Rocket Propulsion Market Market Outlook
The Rocket Propulsion market is poised for continued growth over the forecast period, driven by technological advancements, increasing demand for space-based services, and growing government and private investments. Strategic partnerships, focus on sustainability, and the development of next-generation propulsion systems present significant opportunities for market players. The market will likely witness further consolidation through mergers and acquisitions, leading to a more concentrated landscape. The expansion into new applications, such as space tourism and lunar exploration, promises even more future growth potential.
Rocket Propulsion Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Solid
- 1.2. Liquid
- 1.3. Hybrid
-
2. End User
- 2.1. Civil and Commercial
- 2.2. Military
Rocket Propulsion Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. North America
- 2. Europe
- 3. Asia Pacific
- 4. Rest of the World

Rocket Propulsion Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of > 8.50% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Enhanced Expenditure on Space Exploration Activities
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Global Rocket Propulsion Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Solid
- 5.1.2. Liquid
- 5.1.3. Hybrid
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 5.2.1. Civil and Commercial
- 5.2.2. Military
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. North America
- 5.3.2. Europe
- 5.3.3. Asia Pacific
- 5.3.4. Rest of the World
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. North America Rocket Propulsion Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.1.1. Solid
- 6.1.2. Liquid
- 6.1.3. Hybrid
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 6.2.1. Civil and Commercial
- 6.2.2. Military
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7. Europe Rocket Propulsion Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7.1.1. Solid
- 7.1.2. Liquid
- 7.1.3. Hybrid
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 7.2.1. Civil and Commercial
- 7.2.2. Military
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8. Asia Pacific Rocket Propulsion Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8.1.1. Solid
- 8.1.2. Liquid
- 8.1.3. Hybrid
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 8.2.1. Civil and Commercial
- 8.2.2. Military
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9. Rest of the World Rocket Propulsion Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9.1.1. Solid
- 9.1.2. Liquid
- 9.1.3. Hybrid
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 9.2.1. Civil and Commercial
- 9.2.2. Military
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10. North America Rocket Propulsion Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 10.1.1.
- 11. Europe Rocket Propulsion Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 11.1.1.
- 12. Asia Pacific Rocket Propulsion Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 12.1.1.
- 13. Rest of the World Rocket Propulsion Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 13.1.1.
- 14. Competitive Analysis
- 14.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 14.2. Company Profiles
- 14.2.1 Space Exploration Technologies Corp
- 14.2.1.1. Overview
- 14.2.1.2. Products
- 14.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.2 Land Space Technology Co Ltd
- 14.2.2.1. Overview
- 14.2.2.2. Products
- 14.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.3 Antrix Corporation Limited
- 14.2.3.1. Overview
- 14.2.3.2. Products
- 14.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.4 Aerojet Rocketdyne
- 14.2.4.1. Overview
- 14.2.4.2. Products
- 14.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.5 Safran SA
- 14.2.5.1. Overview
- 14.2.5.2. Products
- 14.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.6 NPO Energomash
- 14.2.6.1. Overview
- 14.2.6.2. Products
- 14.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.7 IHI Corporatio
- 14.2.7.1. Overview
- 14.2.7.2. Products
- 14.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.8 Rocket Lab USA Inc
- 14.2.8.1. Overview
- 14.2.8.2. Products
- 14.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.9 Blue Origin Federation LLC
- 14.2.9.1. Overview
- 14.2.9.2. Products
- 14.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.10 Northrop Grumman Corporation
- 14.2.10.1. Overview
- 14.2.10.2. Products
- 14.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.11 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd
- 14.2.11.1. Overview
- 14.2.11.2. Products
- 14.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.1 Space Exploration Technologies Corp
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: North America Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: Europe Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: Europe Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: Asia Pacific Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: Asia Pacific Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: Rest of the World Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: Rest of the World Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: North America Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: North America Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: North America Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: North America Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: North America Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: North America Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Europe Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Europe Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Europe Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Europe Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Europe Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Europe Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 22: Asia Pacific Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 23: Asia Pacific Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 24: Asia Pacific Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 25: Asia Pacific Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 26: Asia Pacific Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 27: Asia Pacific Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 28: Rest of the World Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 29: Rest of the World Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 30: Rest of the World Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 31: Rest of the World Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 32: Rest of the World Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 33: Rest of the World Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Global Rocket Propulsion Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Rocket Propulsion Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 8.50%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Rocket Propulsion Market?
Key companies in the market include Space Exploration Technologies Corp, Land Space Technology Co Ltd, Antrix Corporation Limited, Aerojet Rocketdyne, Safran SA, NPO Energomash, IHI Corporatio, Rocket Lab USA Inc, Blue Origin Federation LLC, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.
3. What are the main segments of the Rocket Propulsion Market?
The market segments include Type, End User.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
N/A
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Enhanced Expenditure on Space Exploration Activities.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
N/A
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
N/A
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Rocket Propulsion Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Rocket Propulsion Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Rocket Propulsion Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Rocket Propulsion Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence