NASA is considering altering its original plan to use Boeing’s Space Launch System (SLS) to propel astronauts into lunar orbit. Instead, the agency is looking at Elon Musk’s SpaceX to take on the venture.
Current Plans and Potential Changes
The initial plan involved Boeing’s SLS rocket using a Lockheed Martin Corp-built Orion crew capsule to send astronauts to the moon’s orbit, where they would meet a Starship lander near lunar orbit. However, NASA is now considering using SpaceX’s Starship for this role, which would minimize Boeing’s part in the plans. Officials from NASA are scheduled to meet with Blue Origin LLC, Boeing, and SpaceX on March 24 to discuss these potential changes.
Ongoing Delays and Rising Costs
The potential change in plans comes amid ongoing delays and rising costs associated with the SLS and Orion programs. The average launch cost is estimated to be around $4 billion. Despite these challenges, NASA is exploring alternative options to ensure the success of its lunar missions.
SpaceX’s Ambitions
SpaceX has been making significant progress in its space exploration endeavors. The company has set its sights on cargo missions to the Moon and Mars by 2028 and 2030, respectively. Additionally, Elon Musk has reaffirmed his goal of building factories on the moon, with Tesla Inc. expected to have a presence on the lunar surface within the next 20 years.
Recent Developments
SpaceX recently acquired xAI, an artificial intelligence startup founded by Elon Musk. The combined SpaceX-xAI entity is valued at $1.25 trillion, with a planned IPO scheduled for June this year. The company has also been invited by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to discuss its orbital datacenter goals, which involve operating a fleet of over 1 million satellites.