SpaceX launched its most powerful version of the Starship rocket yet on a major test flight on Friday (May 22), marking a key step in NASA’s plan to return astronauts to the Moon. The upgraded mega rocket, developed by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, lifted off from Starbase in southern Texas just two days after Musk announced plans for the company’s public listing. The rocket carried 20 mock Starlink satellites intended for deployment during flight. This was the 12th test mission of the Starship program, which Musk envisions eventually carrying humans to Mars.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, the immediate focus remains supporting the NASA Artemis program for lunar exploration. The previous generation of Starship rockets flew for the last time in October. The newly introduced third-generation model, known as V3, launched from a new pad at Starbase near the US–Mexico border after a brief delay caused by technical issues. SpaceX had aimed to avoid the failures seen in earlier test flights last year, when several prototypes were lost during ascent or re-entry, scattering debris over the Atlantic Ocean.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-dead-90-workers-trapped-underground-after-coal-mining-accident-in-northern-china-rescue-operations-underway-1779490325688">Four dead, 90 workers trapped underground after coal mining accident in Northern China; rescue operations underway</a><h2>Watch the liftoff video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Liftoff of Starship! <a href="https://t.co/LQLdjK5V6K">pic.twitter.com/LQLdjK5V6K</a>&mdash; SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/2057952539417461045?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The latest Starship stands 407 feet (124 meters) tall and features a more powerful propulsion system, improved control surfaces, and upgraded navigation systems. It also includes docking hardware designed for future missions to the Moon and orbital operations. The redesigned booster uses fewer but larger grid fins for re-entry control and a strengthened fuel transfer system supporting its 33 engines.&nbsp;SpaceX plans for full reusability, including catching returning rocket stages with giant mechanical arms. However, this test flight did not attempt recovery; the booster was expected to fall into the Gulf of Mexico, while the upper stage was planned to splash down in the Indian Ocean after completing satellite deployment. NASA is investing billions in SpaceX and also working with Blue Origin to develop lunar landers for future Moon missions.&nbsp;Both companies are competing to support Artemis missions, including Artemis III, which aims to land astronauts on the Moon as early as 2028 for the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972. Future plans include establishing a long-term lunar base near the Moon’s south pole, supported by astronauts and robotic systems. Starship is also being positioned for commercial space travel. SpaceX is already accepting reservations for private missions to the Moon and Mars.&nbsp;Space tourism pioneer Dennis Tito and his wife have reserved a future lunar flyby, though the timeline remains uncertain. Meanwhile, crypto investor Chun Wang recently announced plans to fly on a future Starship Mars mission after previously joining a SpaceX polar orbit mission aboard a Dragon spacecraft. No schedule or price has been confirmed for the proposed Mars journey.<h2>SpaceX super heavy booster explodes mid-air during Starship test flight- WATCH</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Fair play, Booster 19. Sporty all the way. Well done to SpaceX for showing it too. <a href="https://t.co/b3NGnV589n">pic.twitter.com/b3NGnV589n</a>&mdash; NSF - NASASpaceflight.com (@NASASpaceflight) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASASpaceflight/status/2057954117444583897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Sporty Staging. <a href="https://t.co/Ue9ojS5UcS">pic.twitter.com/Ue9ojS5UcS</a>&mdash; NSF - NASASpaceflight.com (@NASASpaceflight) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASASpaceflight/status/2057953262230188359?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

SpaceX suffered another dramatic setback during its latest Starship test mission on Saturday after the massive Super Heavy booster exploded mid-air while descending back to Earth shortly after launch from Texas. Despite the incident, one of the mission’s key objectives, stage separation, was completed successfully. During the manoeuvre, the upper-stage Starship spacecraft separated from the Super Heavy booster using the company’s hot-staging system, in which the spacecraft’s engines ignite before the booster fully detaches.&nbsp;Following separation, the booster began its planned descent toward the Gulf of Mexico. SpaceX intended for the rocket stage to perform a controlled return flight before splashing down safely in the ocean. However, during re-entry through the atmosphere, the booster suddenly exploded high above the Gulf. Live broadcast footage captured the massive rocket erupting into flames before it could complete its descent.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-indians-can-become-permanent-residents-in-paraguay-1779479186398/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-indians-can-become-permanent-residents-in-paraguay-1779479186398/embed</a>&nbsp;Although the booster was lost, the upper-stage Starship spacecraft continued its flight in space after separation, allowing engineers to collect valuable mission data. The Super Heavy booster is the most powerful rocket stage ever developed and forms a crucial part of SpaceX’s long-term goal of building a fully reusable launch system for future space missions. The company has repeatedly stated that failures during experimental launches are expected as engineers continue refining the spacecraft through real-world testing.&nbsp;Saturday’s explosion underscored the immense engineering challenges involved in recovering and landing such a large rocket booster. Still, the successful launch and stage separation marked another important step forward for the Starship programme, which is expected to support future NASA lunar missions and eventual human missions to Mars.

SpaceX successfully launched its upgraded Starship V3 rocket in a major test flight supporting NASA’s Artemis Moon program and future Mars missions

SpaceX launched its most powerful version of the Starship rocket yet on a major test flight on Friday (May 22), marking a key step in NASA’s plan to return astronauts to the Moon. The upgraded mega rocket, developed by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, lifted off from Starbase in southern Texas just two days after Musk announced plans for the company’s public listing. The rocket carried 20 mock Starlink satellites intended for deployment during flight. This was the 12th test mission of the Starship program, which Musk envisions eventually carrying humans to Mars. However, the immediate focus remains supporting the NASA Artemis program for lunar exploration. The previous generation of Starship rockets flew for the last time in October. The newly introduced third-generation model, known as V3, launched from a new pad at Starbase near the US–Mexico border after a brief delay caused by technical issues. SpaceX had aimed to avoid the failures seen in earlier test flights last year, when several prototypes were lost during ascent or re-entry, scattering debris over the Atlantic Ocean. Also Read: Four dead, 90 workers trapped underground after coal mining accident in Northern China; rescue operations underway Watch the liftoff video here

Elon Musk's SpaceX launched its most powerful Starship yet in a key test flight for NASA’s Moon and future Mars missions

SpaceX launches upgraded Starship V3 on debut test flight; loses booster on return

As SpaceX moves closer to a public listing, new details reveal how Elon Musk is likely to retain and in some ways increase his control over the company.According to the company’s IPO filing, Musk will continue to hold a dominant position even after SpaceX becomes a publicly traded firm, raising important questions for future investors.&nbsp;<h2>Musk’s control will remain above 50%</h2>Even after the IPO, Musk is expected to retain more than 50 per cent of voting power, ensuring that he remains in full control of key decisions.He will continue to serve as CEO, CTO and chairman, giving him authority across both management and governance.This means Musk will be able to:Appoint board membersApprove major decisionsMaintain long-term strategic directionIn practical terms, this structure makes it difficult for shareholders to influence company decisions.<h2>Dual-class shares strengthen voting power</h2>SpaceX uses a dual-class share structure, where certain shares carry higher voting rights.Musk holds a large portion of these super-voting shares, giving him far greater influence than regular shareholders.Public investors will mainly receive Class A shares, which come with lower voting power. This creates a gap between ownership and control.Such structures are already used by companies like Google and Meta, but experts say SpaceX’s model goes further in concentrating power.<h2>Limits on shareholder rights</h2>The IPO filing outlines several restrictions on shareholder influence.The company states that investors may have limited ability to:Influence corporate decisionsChallenge management legallyElect directors independently&nbsp;In addition, SpaceX has structured its legal framework in a way that makes shareholder lawsuits more difficult.For example, investors would need to hold at least 3 per cent of shares to file certain types of legal claims. At current valuation estimates, this could require tens of billions of dollars in holdings.<h2>Texas incorporation adds legal protection</h2>SpaceX has chosen to incorporate in Texas, which offers a different regulatory environment compared to states like Delaware.The company has also included provisions that direct most legal disputes to specific courts or arbitration systems.Experts say this reduces the likelihood of legal challenges against management decisions.<h2>Stock market dynamics may support valuation</h2>The company is expected to be added quickly to major stock indexes such as the Nasdaq 100 after listing.This could lead to increased demand from institutional investors, as index funds are required to buy shares of companies included in these benchmarks.As a result, early trading may see strong demand, which could support the stock price in the initial phase.<h2>Additional financial advantages for Musk</h2>Musk has also been granted a compensation package that includes 1 billion additional shares, tied to long-term performance goals.Even before these shares fully vest, he is allowed to:Vote using these sharesUse them as collateral for loansThis provides financial flexibility and additional influence over the company.<h2>What this means for investors</h2>The SpaceX IPO offers an opportunity to invest in one of the world’s most valuable private companies. However, the structure means that public shareholders will have limited control. Investors may benefit from the company’s growth, but decision-making will remain concentrated with Musk.<h2>What happens next</h2>Further details about pricing and share allocation are expected closer to the IPO date.The listing is likely to attract strong interest from global investors, but attention will remain on how the company balances growth with governance.The SpaceX IPO highlights a broader trend in technology companies, where founders retain strong control even after going public.

As SpaceX moves closer to a public listing, new details reveal how Elon Musk is likely to retain and in some ways increase his control over the company.


As SpaceX moves closer to a public listing, new details reveal how Elon Musk is likely to retain and in some ways increase his control over the company. According to the company’s IPO filing, Musk will continue to hold a dominant position even after SpaceX becomes a publicly traded firm, raising important questions for future investors. Musk’s control will remain above 50% Even after the IPO, Musk is expected to retain more than 50 per cent of voting power, ensuring that he remains in full control of key decisions. He will continue to serve as CEO, CTO and chairman, giving him authority across both management and governance. This means Musk will be able to: Appoint board members Approve major decisions Maintain long-term strategic direction In practical terms, this structure makes it difficult for shareholders to influence company decisions. Dual-class shares strengthen voting power SpaceX uses a dual-class share structure, where certain shares carry higher voting rights. Musk holds a large portion of these super-voting shares, giving him far greater influence than regular shareholders. Public investors will mainly receive Class A shares, which come with lower voting power. This creates a gap between ownership and control. Such structures are already used by companies like Google and Meta, but experts say SpaceX’s model goes further in concentrating power. Limits on shareholder rights The IPO filing outlines several restrictions on shareholder influence. The company states that investors may have limited ability to: Influence corporate decisions Challenge management legally Elect directors independently In addition, SpaceX has structured its legal framework in a way that makes shareholder lawsuits more difficult. For example, investors would need to hold at least 3 per cent of shares to file certain types of legal claims. At current valuation estimates, this could require tens of billions of dollars in holdings. Texas incorporation adds legal protection SpaceX has chosen to incorporate in Texas, which offers a different regulatory environment compared to states like Delaware. The company has also included provisions that direct most legal disputes to specific courts or arbitration systems. Experts say this reduces the likelihood of legal challenges against management decisions. Stock market dynamics may support valuation The company is expected to be added quickly to major stock indexes such as the Nasdaq 100 after listing. This could lead to increased demand from institutional investors, as index funds are required to buy shares of companies included in these benchmarks. As a result, early trading may see strong demand, which could support the stock price in the initial phase. Additional financial advantages for Musk Musk has also been granted a compensation package that includes 1 billion additional shares, tied to long-term performance goals. Even before these shares fully vest, he is allowed to: Vote using these shares Use them as collateral for loans This provides financial flexibility and additional influence over the company. What this means for investors The SpaceX IPO offers an opportunity to invest in one of the world’s most valuable private companies. However, the structure means that public shareholders will have limited control. Investors may benefit from the company’s growth, but decision-making will remain concentrated with Musk. What happens next Further details about pricing and share allocation are expected closer to the IPO date. The listing is likely to attract strong interest from global investors, but attention will remain on how the company balances growth with governance. The SpaceX IPO highlights a broader trend in technology companies, where founders retain strong control even after going public.

As SpaceX moves closer to a public listing, new details reveal how Elon Musk is likely to retain and in some ways increase his control over the company.

'SpaceX IPO': How Elon Musk is set to strengthen control after listing

As SpaceX prepares for a potential public listing, new disclosures highlight who stands to benefit the most from the company’s initial public offering (IPO). The filings show that Elon Musk remains the dominant shareholder, with a level of control that sets him apart from other investors.According to details from the company’s S-1 filing, Musk holds a significant majority of voting power, giving him control over key decisions even after the IPO.&nbsp;<h2>Elon Musk’s dominant stake explained</h2>Musk owns more than 6.4 billion shares in total, including:Around 850 million Class A shares (one vote per share)Nearly 5.6 billion Class B shares (10 votes per share)This dual-class share structure gives Musk overwhelming voting power. Reports suggest that even additional shares linked to long-term targets, such as future Mars missions, do not materially change his already strong control.This means Musk is likely to remain the key decision-maker even after SpaceX becomes a public company.<h2>Who else benefits from the IPO</h2>Apart from Musk, a small group of insiders and early investors also hold significant stakes.These include:Antonio Gracias, investor and board member, with over 503 million sharesLuke Nosek, investor, with nearly 33 million sharesGwynne Shotwell, COO, with around 12.6 million sharesBret Johnsen, CFO, with nearly 9.6 million sharesThese individuals are among the largest shareholders after Musk and could see substantial gains if the IPO performs well.<h2>Estimated valuation and potential gains</h2>Market estimates suggest that the SpaceX IPO could raise around $75 billion, with a possible valuation of $1.7 trillion.At this level:A 1 per cent stake could be worth around $17 billionEven smaller stakes could translate into billions of dollars in valueThis highlights the scale of wealth that could be created for major shareholders.<h2>Role of early investors</h2>SpaceX has raised around $30 billion in private funding from hundreds of investors over the years.Early investors bought shares at much lower prices:Around $1 per share in early funding roundsAbout $7.50 in mid-stage roundsUp to $270 per share in later roundsThis wide range shows how early backers could see significant returns if the company lists at a high valuation.<h2>Why control matters in this IPO</h2>Unlike many public companies, SpaceX’s ownership structure ensures that Musk retains control even after listing.The dual-class share system allows him to:Maintain voting powerInfluence strategic decisionsControl long-term directionThis structure is often used by founder-led companies to protect their vision while raising capital.<h2>What this means for investors</h2>For public investors, the IPO could offer access to one of the world’s most valuable private companies. However, the structure means that minority shareholders may have limited influence over decisions.For insiders, the listing represents a major financial opportunity, with potential gains tied to the company’s future performance.<h2>What happens next</h2>Details such as pricing, share allocation and listing timelines are yet to be finalised. However, the disclosures provide a clear picture of who stands to benefit the most.As SpaceX moves closer to going public, attention is likely to remain on its ownership structure and how it shapes the company’s future

As SpaceX prepares for a potential public listing, new disclosures highlight who stands to benefit the most from the company’s initial public offering (IPO). The filings show that Elon Musk remains the dominant shareholder, with a level of control that sets him apart from other investors.


As SpaceX prepares for a potential public listing, new disclosures highlight who stands to benefit the most from the company’s initial public offering (IPO). The filings show that Elon Musk remains the dominant shareholder, with a level of control that sets him apart from other investors. According to details from the company’s S-1 filing, Musk holds a significant majority of voting power, giving him control over key decisions even after the IPO. Elon Musk’s dominant stake explained Musk owns more than 6.4 billion shares in total, including: Around 850 million Class A shares (one vote per share) Nearly 5.6 billion Class B shares (10 votes per share) This dual-class share structure gives Musk overwhelming voting power. Reports suggest that even additional shares linked to long-term targets, such as future Mars missions, do not materially change his already strong control. This means Musk is likely to remain the key decision-maker even after SpaceX becomes a public company. Who else benefits from the IPO Apart from Musk, a small group of insiders and early investors also hold significant stakes. These include: Antonio Gracias, investor and board member, with over 503 million shares Luke Nosek, investor, with nearly 33 million shares Gwynne Shotwell, COO, with around 12.6 million shares Bret Johnsen, CFO, with nearly 9.6 million shares These individuals are among the largest shareholders after Musk and could see substantial gains if the IPO performs well. Estimated valuation and potential gains Market estimates suggest that the SpaceX IPO could raise around $75 billion, with a possible valuation of $1.7 trillion. At this level: A 1 per cent stake could be worth around $17 billion Even smaller stakes could translate into billions of dollars in value This highlights the scale of wealth that could be created for major shareholders. Role of early investors SpaceX has raised around $30 billion in private funding from hundreds of investors over the years. Early investors bought shares at much lower prices: Around $1 per share in early funding rounds About $7.50 in mid-stage rounds Up to $270 per share in later rounds This wide range shows how early backers could see significant returns if the company lists at a high valuation. Why control matters in this IPO Unlike many public companies, SpaceX’s ownership structure ensures that Musk retains control even after listing. The dual-class share system allows him to: Maintain voting power Influence strategic decisions Control long-term direction This structure is often used by founder-led companies to protect their vision while raising capital. What this means for investors For public investors, the IPO could offer access to one of the world’s most valuable private companies. However, the structure means that minority shareholders may have limited influence over decisions. For insiders, the listing represents a major financial opportunity, with potential gains tied to the company’s future performance. What happens next Details such as pricing, share allocation and listing timelines are yet to be finalised. However, the disclosures provide a clear picture of who stands to benefit the most. As SpaceX moves closer to going public, attention is likely to remain on its ownership structure and how it shapes the company’s future

As SpaceX prepares for a potential public listing, new disclosures highlight who stands to benefit the most from the company’s initial public offering (IPO). The filings show that Elon Musk remains the dominant shareholder, with a level of control that sets him apart from other investors.

'$1.7 trillion valuation': Who will win big from SpaceX’s listing?

SpaceX postponed the launch of its massive Starship V3 rocket on Thursday (May 21) after the spacecraft had already been fully fueled at the company’s newly built launch facility in Starbase, southern Texas. A 90-minute launch window opened at 6:30 pm ET, but the rocket never lifted off. During the company’s live broadcast, SpaceX hosts confirmed they had ‘got the vehicle totally loaded’ before the launch was officially scrubbed. SpaceX has not announced an exact new launch time, though another attempt is expected on Friday (May 22).<h2>What is Starship V3, and why does the launch matter?</h2>The delayed mission involved Starship Version 3, the newest and most advanced version of SpaceX’s flagship rocket system. When fully stacked, the two-stage rocket stands 408 feet tall and produces 18 million pounds of thrust, making it the most powerful rocket ever developed by the company. According to SpaceX’s IPO prospectus filed Wednesday, the rocket is designed to “deliver 100 metric tons to Earth's orbit in a fully reusable configuration while enabling rapid turnaround times akin to commercial aviation.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-deployment-of-5-000-additional-us-troops-to-poland-as-tensions-with-nato-escalate-1779399664140">Trump announces deployment of 5,000 additional US troops to Poland as tensions with NATO escalate</a>&nbsp;Flight 12 was set to become the first test mission using the Version 3 upgrade. Throughout 2025, SpaceX successfully completed five flights using Starship Version 2, though the transition to the newer model faced major setbacks. Two separate explosions during ground testing destroyed a Super Heavy booster and a Starship upper-stage vehicle before the latest launch preparations. No astronauts or operational payloads were onboard the rocket. Instead, SpaceX loaded mock Starlink satellites for testing purposes.<h2>What are its mission objectives?</h2>The planned suborbital mission included several technical demonstrations and engineering tests. Twenty Starlink simulator satellites were scheduled for deployment over approximately 10 minutes beginning about 17 minutes after liftoff. Two specially modified Starlink satellites were also intended to inspect Starship’s heat shield and transmit images back to mission control. Engineers painted several heat shield tiles white to imitate damaged or missing sections, helping test future inspection methods designed to evaluate heat shield safety during orbital missions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-scrambles-to-track-surprise-asteroid-barrelling-past-earth-1779389140335/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-scrambles-to-track-surprise-asteroid-barrelling-past-earth-1779389140335/embed</a>&nbsp;The mission also planned a mid-flight relight of a Raptor engine roughly 39 minutes into the flight during a coast phase. The test would provide valuable data for future deorbiting operations as SpaceX works toward fully orbital Starship missions. Unlike previous missions, Super Heavy Booster 19 was not expected to attempt a tower catch. Instead, the booster was scheduled for a controlled splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico around seven minutes after launch. Ship 39, the upper-stage spacecraft, was expected to complete its own controlled splashdown in the Indian Ocean more than an hour later.

SpaceX delays Starship V3 Flight 12 launch after fueling at Starbase. The mission includes Starlink deployment and heat shield tests

SpaceX postponed the launch of its massive Starship V3 rocket on Thursday (May 21) after the spacecraft had already been fully fueled at the company’s newly built launch facility in Starbase, southern Texas. A 90-minute launch window opened at 6:30 pm ET, but the rocket never lifted off. During the company’s live broadcast, SpaceX hosts confirmed they had ‘got the vehicle totally loaded’ before the launch was officially scrubbed. SpaceX has not announced an exact new launch time, though another attempt is expected on Friday (May 22). What is Starship V3, and why does the launch matter? The delayed mission involved Starship Version 3, the newest and most advanced version of SpaceX’s flagship rocket system. When fully stacked, the two-stage rocket stands 408 feet tall and produces 18 million pounds of thrust, making it the most powerful rocket ever developed by the company. According to SpaceX’s IPO prospectus filed Wednesday, the rocket is designed to “deliver 100 metric tons to Earth's orbit in a fully reusable configuration while enabling rapid turnaround times akin to commercial aviation.” Also Read: Trump announces deployment of 5,000 additional US troops to Poland as tensions with NATO escalate Flight 12 was set to become the first test mission using the Version 3 upgrade. Throughout 2025, SpaceX successfully completed five flights using Starship Version 2, though the transition to the newer model faced major setbacks. Two separate explosions during ground testing destroyed a Super Heavy booster and a Starship upper-stage vehicle before the latest launch preparations. No astronauts or operational payloads were onboard the rocket. Instead, SpaceX loaded mock Starlink satellites for testing purposes. What are its mission objectives? The planned suborbital mission included several technical demonstrations and engineering tests. Twenty Starlink simulator satellites were scheduled for deployment over approximately 10 minutes beginning about 17 minutes after liftoff. Two specially modified Starlink satellites were also intended to inspect Starship’s heat shield and transmit images back to mission control. Engineers painted several heat shield tiles white to imitate damaged or missing sections, helping test future inspection methods designed to evaluate heat shield safety during orbital missions. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-scrambles-to-track-surprise-asteroid-barrelling-past-earth-1779389140335/embed The mission also planned a mid-flight relight of a Raptor engine roughly 39 minutes into the flight during a coast phase. The test would provide valuable data for future deorbiting operations as SpaceX works toward fully orbital Starship missions. Unlike previous missions, Super Heavy Booster 19 was not expected to attempt a tower catch. Instead, the booster was scheduled for a controlled splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico around seven minutes after launch. Ship 39, the upper-stage spacecraft, was expected to complete its own controlled splashdown in the Indian Ocean more than an hour later.

SpaceX scrubbed Starship V3 Flight 12 launch after fueling the rocket, with another launch attempt expected on Friday (May 22)

SpaceX postpones launch of Starship V3 after several countdown disruptions; rescheduled for Friday

Elon Musk’s SpaceX is aiming to conduct 10,000 launches a year within the next five years, according to US Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Bryan Bedford, who revealed details of a recent meeting with SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell. The target would represent a dramatic increase from the company’s current launch pace and further expand SpaceX’s dominance in the commercial space industry. Speaking after an aviation forum on Wednesday, Bedford said Shotwell discussed “the SpaceX five-year vision to get to 10,000 launches a year”. Reuters reported that SpaceX carried out 170 launches in 2025 and deployed roughly 2,500 satellites during the year.&nbsp;In a separate Forbes interview released this week, Musk said SpaceX already has around 10,000 satellites in orbit and eventually plans to launch 10,000 communications satellites annually, though he did not specify a timeline.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-administration-plans-to-cut-us-forces-available-to-nato-during-crises-yet-retain-nuclear-shield-1779282133187">Trump administration plans to cut US forces available to NATO during crises, yet retain nuclear shield</a>&nbsp;<h2>FAA raises reliability and safety concerns</h2>&nbsp;Despite the company’s expansion plans, the FAA signalled that regulatory approval would depend heavily on improved operational reliability. “We need to see a lot more reliability,” Bedford told Reuters reporters, adding that SpaceX and regulators had held ‘a very frank conversation’ about future launch demands.&nbsp;The FAA licenses all commercial space launches in the United States and is responsible for ensuring launches do not interfere with passenger air traffic or create public safety risks. Bedford said the agency is currently reviewing data from previous launches to better assess potential hazards. He also noted that launch operations often require temporary flight restrictions, which ‘can be very disruptive’ to commercial aviation. According to Bedford, the FAA is not currently the main obstacle to launch growth, though he warned that insufficient funding for the agency’s space division could eventually become a limiting factor.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/wion-decodes-what-is-trump-s-1-7b-weaponization-fund-proposal-outlines-compensation-for-alleged-political-targeting-1779350111085">WION Decodes| What is Trump’s $1.7B ‘weaponization’ fund? Proposal outlines compensation for alleged 'political targeting'</a>&nbsp;<h2>SpaceX’s broader ambitions</h2>&nbsp;Founded by Musk in 2002, SpaceX has grown into the world’s largest private space company through reusable rocket technology and its Starlink satellite internet business. In January, the company said it hopes to eventually deploy a constellation of one million satellites capable of powering AI-focused infrastructure in space. SpaceX recently disclosed IPO-related financial details showing that Starlink remains its only profitable division, while investments linked to artificial intelligence continue to drive significant spending. Starlink network of ​about 10,000 satellites offers broadband internet to consumers, governments and enterprise customers.&nbsp;Bedford added that the US government’s broader space ambitions, including plans backed by US President Donald Trump to return astronauts to the Moon before 2028, would require closer coordination between regulators and private industry.

Founded by Musk in 2002, SpaceX has grown into the world’s largest private space company through reusable rocket technology and its Starlink satellite internet business. 

Elon Musk’s SpaceX is aiming to conduct 10,000 launches a year within the next five years, according to US Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Bryan Bedford, who revealed details of a recent meeting with SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell. The target would represent a dramatic increase from the company’s current launch pace and further expand SpaceX’s dominance in the commercial space industry. Speaking after an aviation forum on Wednesday, Bedford said Shotwell discussed “the SpaceX five-year vision to get to 10,000 launches a year”. Reuters reported that SpaceX carried out 170 launches in 2025 and deployed roughly 2,500 satellites during the year. In a separate Forbes interview released this week, Musk said SpaceX already has around 10,000 satellites in orbit and eventually plans to launch 10,000 communications satellites annually, though he did not specify a timeline. ALSO READ: Trump administration plans to cut US forces available to NATO during crises, yet retain nuclear shield FAA raises reliability and safety concerns Despite the company’s expansion plans, the FAA signalled that regulatory approval would depend heavily on improved operational reliability. “We need to see a lot more reliability,” Bedford told Reuters reporters, adding that SpaceX and regulators had held ‘a very frank conversation’ about future launch demands. The FAA licenses all commercial space launches in the United States and is responsible for ensuring launches do not interfere with passenger air traffic or create public safety risks. Bedford said the agency is currently reviewing data from previous launches to better assess potential hazards. He also noted that launch operations often require temporary flight restrictions, which ‘can be very disruptive’ to commercial aviation. According to Bedford, the FAA is not currently the main obstacle to launch growth, though he warned that insufficient funding for the agency’s space division could eventually become a limiting factor. ALSO READ: WION Decodes| What is Trump’s $1.7B ‘weaponization’ fund? Proposal outlines compensation for alleged 'political targeting' SpaceX’s broader ambitions Founded by Musk in 2002, SpaceX has grown into the world’s largest private space company through reusable rocket technology and its Starlink satellite internet business. In January, the company said it hopes to eventually deploy a constellation of one million satellites capable of powering AI-focused infrastructure in space. SpaceX recently disclosed IPO-related financial details showing that Starlink remains its only profitable division, while investments linked to artificial intelligence continue to drive significant spending. Starlink network of about 10,000 satellites offers broadband internet to consumers, governments and enterprise customers. Bedford added that the US government’s broader space ambitions, including plans backed by US President Donald Trump to return astronauts to the Moon before 2028, would require closer coordination between regulators and private industry.

Founded by Musk in 2002, SpaceX has grown into the world’s largest private space company through reusable rocket technology and its Starlink satellite internet business.&nbsp;

Elon Musk’s SpaceX plans 10,000 launches annually in 5 years; FAA says more reliability is required!

SpaceX has filed for its long-anticipated initial public offering, revealing new details about its business model, ownership structure, and future ambitions as investors prepare for what could become the largest IPO in history. The company, founded and led by Elon Musk, is reportedly targeting a valuation that could raise $80 billion or more, surpassing the previous record held by Saudi Aramco, which raised $26 billion in its 2019 public listing.<h2>Massive market opportunity projection</h2>In its IPO filing, SpaceX estimates a total addressable market (TAM) of $28.5 trillion, describing it as the ‘largest actionable’ market opportunity ‘in human history’.The breakdown includes:<ul><li>$370 billion in space-enabled services</li><li>$1.6 trillion in connectivity, including Starlink broadband and mobile expansion</li><li>$26.5 trillion in artificial intelligence-related markets, spanning infrastructure, subscriptions, advertising, and enterprise applications</li><li>$22.7 trillion in enterprise applications</li></ul>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-there-won-t-be-escalation-says-trump-as-he-calls-indictment-against-raul-castro-very-big-moment-1779308113798">'There won't be escalation', says Trump as he calls indictment against Raul Castro 'very big moment'</a><h2>What is the stock symbol for SpaceX?&nbsp;</h2>The filing shows that SpaceX plans to trade under the ticker symbol ‘SPCX’ once it goes public next month. The stock will be dual-listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market and Nasdaq Texas, marking a competitive win for Nasdaq in attracting high-profile listings.<h2>Who are the board members of SpaceX?</h2>SpaceX disclosed its board structure, with Elon Musk serving as chairman. Other board members include long-time SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell, Google executive Donald Harrison, and investors Antonio Gracias, Steve Jurvetson, and Luke Nosek. Randy Glein and Ira Ehrenpreis recently joined as directors.<h2>How much did SpaceX spend last year?</h2>The company reported $20.7 billion in capital expenditures last year, driven by investments in launch systems, satellites, AI infrastructure, and its expanding Starlink network. The Starlink division remains central to revenue growth, with more than 10 million subscribers as of March, doubling year over year. SpaceX reported total revenue of approximately $18.7 billion in 2025, with Starlink alone generating more than $11 billion. The company described Starlink as capable of delivering broadband connectivity anywhere on Earth. It also identified telecom giants such as AT&amp;T and Verizon as competitors in the global internet market.<h2>AI satellite project won’t be easy: SpaceX</h2>SpaceX also outlined plans for an orbital AI computing network, potentially beginning deployment as early as 2028. However, the company acknowledged major technical hurdles. “Orbital AI compute is an incredibly difficult technical challenge,” the company said in its prospectus. “We believe we are the only company with a commercially viable path to building orbital AI compute at scale.” The initiative depends heavily on the successful development of the Starship rocket, which is expected to play a key role in deploying large-scale satellite infrastructure.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cristiano-ronaldo-s-final-attempt-to-win-the-fifa-world-cup-1779298231843/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/cristiano-ronaldo-s-final-attempt-to-win-the-fifa-world-cup-1779298231843/embed</a>

SpaceX has filed for its IPO under ticker SPCX, revealing major financials, Starlink growth, and plans for AI satellite networks. The company targets a massive valuation, positioning itself for one of the largest public offerings in history under Elon Musk’s leadership

SpaceX has filed for its long-anticipated initial public offering, revealing new details about its business model, ownership structure, and future ambitions as investors prepare for what could become the largest IPO in history. The company, founded and led by Elon Musk, is reportedly targeting a valuation that could raise $80 billion or more, surpassing the previous record held by Saudi Aramco, which raised $26 billion in its 2019 public listing. Massive market opportunity projection In its IPO filing, SpaceX estimates a total addressable market (TAM) of $28.5 trillion, describing it as the ‘largest actionable’ market opportunity ‘in human history’. The breakdown includes: $370 billion in space-enabled services $1.6 trillion in connectivity, including Starlink broadband and mobile expansion $26.5 trillion in artificial intelligence-related markets, spanning infrastructure, subscriptions, advertising, and enterprise applications $22.7 trillion in enterprise applications Also Read: 'There won't be escalation', says Trump as he calls indictment against Raul Castro 'very big moment' What is the stock symbol for SpaceX? The filing shows that SpaceX plans to trade under the ticker symbol ‘SPCX’ once it goes public next month. The stock will be dual-listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market and Nasdaq Texas, marking a competitive win for Nasdaq in attracting high-profile listings. Who are the board members of SpaceX? SpaceX disclosed its board structure, with Elon Musk serving as chairman. Other board members include long-time SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell, Google executive Donald Harrison, and investors Antonio Gracias, Steve Jurvetson, and Luke Nosek. Randy Glein and Ira Ehrenpreis recently joined as directors. How much did SpaceX spend last year? The company reported $20.7 billion in capital expenditures last year, driven by investments in launch systems, satellites, AI infrastructure, and its expanding Starlink network. The Starlink division remains central to revenue growth, with more than 10 million subscribers as of March, doubling year over year. SpaceX reported total revenue of approximately $18.7 billion in 2025, with Starlink alone generating more than $11 billion. The company described Starlink as capable of delivering broadband connectivity anywhere on Earth. It also identified telecom giants such as AT&T and Verizon as competitors in the global internet market. AI satellite project won’t be easy: SpaceX SpaceX also outlined plans for an orbital AI computing network, potentially beginning deployment as early as 2028. However, the company acknowledged major technical hurdles. “Orbital AI compute is an incredibly difficult technical challenge,” the company said in its prospectus. “We believe we are the only company with a commercially viable path to building orbital AI compute at scale.” The initiative depends heavily on the successful development of the Starship rocket, which is expected to play a key role in deploying large-scale satellite infrastructure. https://www.wionews.com/videos/cristiano-ronaldo-s-final-attempt-to-win-the-fifa-world-cup-1779298231843/embed

SpaceX files IPO, targets massive valuation, reveals SPCX listing, Starlink growth, and bold AI satellite plans for 2028

Elon Musk's SpaceX files for biggest-ever IPO in history under ticker SPCX. Here's all you need to know about it

SpaceX is preparing to launch Starship Version 3, the latest and most advanced version of the world’s largest rocket, in what could become one of the company’s most closely watched test flights yet. The mission, known as Flight 12, is now targeted for Wednesday evening after multiple delays earlier this week pushed back the original launch schedule from May 19 to now May 20, according to USA Today. &nbsp;The updated launch window for Flight 12 is scheduled to open at 6:30 pm Eastern Time (2230 GMT), from the company’s Starbase facility in Texas during a 90-minute launch window. If weather and technical conditions remain favourable, liftoff could take place shortly after the window opens, though SpaceX typically maintains flexibility in its final countdown timeline before launch.&nbsp;The launch also comes at a significant moment for Elon Musk’s company, with investors closely monitoring SpaceX ahead of a widely anticipated initial public offering expected next month.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ghosts-of-lighthouses-revealed-scientists-trace-source-of-eerie-sounds-heard-in-the-middle-of-nowhere-1779182018558">Ghosts of lighthouses revealed! Scientists trace source of eerie sounds heard in the middle of nowhere</a>&nbsp;<h3>What makes Starship V3 different?</h3>&nbsp;According to Space.com, Starship V3 is described as the ‘biggest and most powerful iteration’ of the rocket so far. The fully reusable system consists of the upper-stage Starship spacecraft mounted atop the Super Heavy booster, powered by 33 upgraded Raptor engines designed to generate more thrust while reducing weight. The new version also includes major upgrades aimed at supporting future lunar and Mars missions. According to Reuters, the spacecraft has been fitted with systems for orbital refuelling, ship-to-ship docking and improved manoeuvrability for long-duration space travel.&nbsp;Flight 12 will also be the first mission launched from a newly constructed pad built specifically for the more powerful V3 rocket.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Starship’s twelfth flight test will debut the next generation Starship and Super Heavy vehicles, powered by the next evolution of the Raptor engine and launching from a newly designed pad at Starbase. The launch is targeted as early as Tuesday, May 19 → <a href="https://t.co/2gZQUxS6mm">https://t.co/2gZQUxS6mm</a> <a href="https://t.co/JxmpL2WE4w">pic.twitter.com/JxmpL2WE4w</a>&mdash; SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/2054304050338750931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-do-indian-kitchens-have-to-do-with-california-gas-prices-india-s-lpg-crisis-may-hold-the-answer-1779182685592">What do Indian kitchens have to do with California gas prices? India’s LPG crisis may hold the answer</a>&nbsp;<h3>Investors and NASA watching closely</h3>&nbsp;“For an IPO that is leaning so heavily into narrative and symbolism, we believe this flight is the single most important pre-IPO catalyst remaining on SpaceX’s calendar,” PitchBook analyst Franco Granda told Reuters. The mission will send Starship on a suborbital trajectory before splashdown in the Indian Ocean roughly 65 minutes after launch. The Super Heavy booster is expected to perform a controlled descent into the Gulf of Mexico around seven minutes after liftoff.Before re-entry, Starship is expected to deploy 20 Starlink simulators along with two modified satellites designed to inspect the vehicle’s heat shield during descent.&nbsp;<h3>Why the launch matters beyond SpaceX</h3>&nbsp;SpaceX’s test-and-fail engineering approach has long set it apart from traditional aerospace firms, with the company repeatedly pushing spacecraft to their limits before refining designs through successive launches. That strategy is now under sharper scrutiny as investors assess SpaceX ahead of its IPO. Elon Musk, who founded the company in 2002, has said Starship could make its first uncrewed journey to Mars by the end of 2026. The rocket is also central to NASA’s Artemis programme, under which SpaceX secured a contract worth more than $3 billion to help return astronauts to the Moon later this decade amid growing competition with China’s lunar ambitions.&nbsp;

The launch also comes at a significant moment for Elon Musk’s company, with investors closely monitoring SpaceX ahead of a widely anticipated initial public offering expected next month.

SpaceX is preparing to launch Starship Version 3, the latest and most advanced version of the world’s largest rocket, in what could become one of the company’s most closely watched test flights yet. The mission, known as Flight 12, is now targeted for Wednesday evening after multiple delays earlier this week pushed back the original launch schedule from May 19 to now May 20, according to USA Today. The updated launch window for Flight 12 is scheduled to open at 6:30 pm Eastern Time (2230 GMT), from the company’s Starbase facility in Texas during a 90-minute launch window. If weather and technical conditions remain favourable, liftoff could take place shortly after the window opens, though SpaceX typically maintains flexibility in its final countdown timeline before launch. The launch also comes at a significant moment for Elon Musk’s company, with investors closely monitoring SpaceX ahead of a widely anticipated initial public offering expected next month. ALSO READ: Ghosts of lighthouses revealed! Scientists trace source of eerie sounds heard in the middle of nowhere What makes Starship V3 different? According to Space.com, Starship V3 is described as the ‘biggest and most powerful iteration’ of the rocket so far. The fully reusable system consists of the upper-stage Starship spacecraft mounted atop the Super Heavy booster, powered by 33 upgraded Raptor engines designed to generate more thrust while reducing weight. The new version also includes major upgrades aimed at supporting future lunar and Mars missions. According to Reuters, the spacecraft has been fitted with systems for orbital refuelling, ship-to-ship docking and improved manoeuvrability for long-duration space travel. Flight 12 will also be the first mission launched from a newly constructed pad built specifically for the more powerful V3 rocket.

The launch also comes at a significant moment for Elon Musk’s company, with investors closely monitoring SpaceX ahead of a widely anticipated initial public offering expected next month.

‘Biggest and most powerful Starship ever’: SpaceX targets new launch date for V3 debut ahead of IPO

SpaceX is preparing for the next test of its Starship launch system, with liftoff scheduled for Tuesday, May 19. The mission, known as Starship Flight 12, will take place from the company’s Starbase facility in South Texas and marks another step in its long-term space exploration plans.The launch window is set to open at 6:30 p.m. EDT (5:30 p.m. CDT), although the timing may change depending on weather conditions and technical checks. The event will be streamed live across SpaceX platforms.&nbsp;<h2>What makes this launch important</h2>This mission will be the first to use upgraded versions of both the Starship upper stage and the Super Heavy booster. These improvements are part of SpaceX’s effort to refine its fully reusable launch system.The Super Heavy booster will use an updated version of the Raptor engine, with all 33 engines expected to ignite during ascent, making it one of the most powerful rocket launches currently under development.<h2>Flight plan and landing approach</h2>Unlike some previous tests, this mission will not attempt to catch the booster using the launch tower arms, often referred to as “chopsticks”.Instead, SpaceX plans a controlled landing of the booster in the Gulf of Mexico. This approach allows engineers to focus on testing other aspects of the system without adding additional recovery complexity.<h2>Starlink deployment and in-space experiments</h2>Once the rocket reaches space, the Starship upper stage is expected to deploy 22 Starlink simulators. These are designed to match the size and shape of next-generation satellites. Some of these simulators will carry out imaging operations to study the spacecraft’s heat shield. Engineers have made specific modifications, including:Painting certain tiles white to track performanceRemoving one tile to observe how surrounding tiles behave during re-entryThese experiments are aimed at improving the durability of the spacecraft during future missions.&nbsp;<h2>Role in NASA’s Artemis programme</h2>Starship is a key part of NASA’s Artemis programme, which aims to return humans to the Moon.SpaceX is developing a version of Starship known as the Human Landing System (HLS) for these missions. According to recent updates, Artemis 3 is expected to function as a test mission where spacecraft will dock in low Earth orbit before heading to the Moon.This makes ongoing Starship tests important for meeting future mission timelines.&nbsp;What to expect during the launchAs with all test flights, the mission may face delays or changes. Engineers will closely monitor performance during launch, flight and landing phases.The focus will be on:Engine performance and stabilityHeat shield behaviour during re-entryDeployment of payload simulators<h2>What this means for future missions</h2>The Starship programme is designed to support large-scale missions, including carrying over 100 tonnes of cargo and eventually transporting astronauts to the Moon and Mars.Each test flight provides data that helps improve the system. The outcome of Flight 12 will play a role in shaping the next phase of development.As SpaceX continues testing, the results will also influence timelines for commercial launches and international space programmes linked to Starship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

SpaceX is preparing for the next test of its Starship launch system, with liftoff scheduled for Tuesday, May 19. The mission, known as Starship Flight 12, will take place from the company’s Starbase facility in South Texas and marks another step in its long-term space exploration plans.

SpaceX is preparing for the next test of its Starship launch system, with liftoff scheduled for Tuesday, May 19. The mission, known as Starship Flight 12, will take place from the company’s Starbase facility in South Texas and marks another step in its long-term space exploration plans. The launch window is set to open at 6:30 p.m. EDT (5:30 p.m. CDT), although the timing may change depending on weather conditions and technical checks. The event will be streamed live across SpaceX platforms. What makes this launch important This mission will be the first to use upgraded versions of both the Starship upper stage and the Super Heavy booster. These improvements are part of SpaceX’s effort to refine its fully reusable launch system. The Super Heavy booster will use an updated version of the Raptor engine, with all 33 engines expected to ignite during ascent, making it one of the most powerful rocket launches currently under development. Flight plan and landing approach Unlike some previous tests, this mission will not attempt to catch the booster using the launch tower arms, often referred to as “chopsticks”. Instead, SpaceX plans a controlled landing of the booster in the Gulf of Mexico. This approach allows engineers to focus on testing other aspects of the system without adding additional recovery complexity. Starlink deployment and in-space experiments Once the rocket reaches space, the Starship upper stage is expected to deploy 22 Starlink simulators. These are designed to match the size and shape of next-generation satellites. Some of these simulators will carry out imaging operations to study the spacecraft’s heat shield. Engineers have made specific modifications, including: Painting certain tiles white to track performance Removing one tile to observe how surrounding tiles behave during re-entry These experiments are aimed at improving the durability of the spacecraft during future missions. Role in NASA’s Artemis programme Starship is a key part of NASA’s Artemis programme, which aims to return humans to the Moon. SpaceX is developing a version of Starship known as the Human Landing System (HLS) for these missions. According to recent updates, Artemis 3 is expected to function as a test mission where spacecraft will dock in low Earth orbit before heading to the Moon. This makes ongoing Starship tests important for meeting future mission timelines. What to expect during the launch As with all test flights, the mission may face delays or changes. Engineers will closely monitor performance during launch, flight and landing phases. The focus will be on: Engine performance and stability Heat shield behaviour during re-entry Deployment of payload simulators What this means for future missions The Starship programme is designed to support large-scale missions, including carrying over 100 tonnes of cargo and eventually transporting astronauts to the Moon and Mars. Each test flight provides data that helps improve the system. The outcome of Flight 12 will play a role in shaping the next phase of development. As SpaceX continues testing, the results will also influence timelines for commercial launches and international space programmes linked to Starship.

SpaceX is preparing for the next test of its Starship launch system, with liftoff scheduled for Tuesday, May 19. The mission, known as Starship Flight 12, will take place from the company’s Starbase facility in South Texas and marks another step in its long-term space exploration plans.

SpaceX set for Starship Flight 12 test launch: Know timing, upgrades, and mission

A bold new compensation plan at SpaceX is tying CEO Elon Musk’s pay to an extraordinary target—building a future on Mars.

According to reports, the package links financial rewards to long-term milestones including Mars colonization and even the development of space-based data centers. One of the most ambitious conditions reportedly envisions a future where up to one million people could live on the Red Planet.

The plan also intensifies the internal competition for Musk’s attention between SpaceX and Tesla, raising questions about priorities, feasibility, and corporate strategy.

SpaceX Ties Musk Compensation To Mars Colonization Goal

The global race to dominate artificial intelligence is intensifying, with the United States and China competing across technology, business and geopolitics. Now, Elon Musk has offered a striking view on how this race may unfold.In a post on X, Musk said China could emerge as the leader in artificial intelligence on Earth, while his own company SpaceX may lead in space.<figure class="image"><img src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/indiatoday/styles/medium_crop_simple/public/2026-03/screenshot_2026-03-19_at_4.20.34_pm.png?VersionId=tmYTtAoybv3zWbPHcNB5ngj09AXA3ZbG&amp;size=750:*" alt="Elon Musk post on X"></figure>

<h2>What exactly did Elon Musk said?</h2>Musk made the comment while replying to a discussion involving Bindu Reddy, CEO of Abacus AI, who had criticised Google’s progress in artificial intelligence.Responding to the debate, Musk wrote:“Google will win the AI race in the West, China on Earth and SpaceX in space.”While the comment appeared partly informal, it reflects broader trends in how different regions are approaching AI development.Why Musk believes China could leadChina and the United States are taking different paths in artificial intelligence.US-based companies such as Microsoft, OpenAI, and Google are investing heavily in large language models, cloud services and enterprise AI tools. Many of these systems are paid or restricted to specific users.In contrast, Chinese companies are focusing on wider accessibility. Firms such as Alibaba and startups like DeepSeek have released open-source or low-cost AI models. This approach allows developers and smaller businesses to use and modify AI tools more easily. Some analysts believe this could lead to faster adoption at scale, even if US models remain stronger in certain benchmarks.<h2>The idea of different winners in AI</h2>Musk’s comment suggests that the AI race may not have a single winner. Instead, different regions and companies could lead in different areas: China: broader AI adoption and deployment United States: advanced research and enterprise systems Space sector: emerging AI applications beyond Earth. He also hinted that the Western AI race could still be led by companies like Google.This reflects a more fragmented view of the AI ecosystem, where leadership depends on use cases rather than one global leader.<h2>SpaceX and the next frontier of AI</h2>Musk also pointed to space as a new arena for artificial intelligence. He has previously spoken about plans to combine xAI with SpaceX to build orbital AI data centres. Reports suggest such projects could be valued at around $1.25 trillion.These space-based systems would:Use solar energy for computingReduce energy costs compared to Earth-based data centresSupport satellite networks and deep-space missionsIf implemented, this could allow AI systems to operate beyond Earth, supporting autonomous spacecraft and future exploration missions.<h2>What this means for the global AI race</h2>The AI race is no longer limited to technology companies. It now involves governments, infrastructure, energy and global influence.China’s focus on accessibility and scale may help it expand AI usage quickly. Meanwhile, US firms continue to lead in advanced research and high-performance models. Musk’s remarks highlight a key idea: AI leadership may be divided across regions and industries rather than dominated by a single country. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, the competition between nations and companies is expected to shape not only technology, but also economic and strategic power in the years ahead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Elon Musk said the global AI race may not have a single winner, suggesting China could lead AI on Earth, while SpaceX may dominate AI in space. 


The global race to dominate artificial intelligence is intensifying, with the United States and China competing across technology, business and geopolitics. Now, Elon Musk has offered a striking view on how this race may unfold. In a post on X, Musk said China could emerge as the leader in artificial intelligence on Earth, while his own company SpaceX may lead in space.

Elon Musk said the global AI race may not have a single winner, suggesting China could lead AI on Earth, while SpaceX may dominate AI in space.&nbsp;

‘Google will win the AI race in the West, China on Earth, and SpaceX in space,’ says Elon Musk

Elon Musk's SpaceX, as per reports, is stepping into a new and controversial area of defence technology by joining a Pentagon competition to develop autonomous drone swarming systems powered by artificial intelligence. The project will also involve Musk's AI company xAI. Here’s what the technology is, and why the Pentagon wants it.<h2>What is autonomous drone swarming?</h2>Drone swarming technology allows multiple, networked unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones to operate as a single intelligence unit rather than as individual machines. Instead of a human pilot controlling each device separately, software enables the drones to communicate with one another, adjust their movements in real time, and complete missions together.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-robots-need-your-body-would-you-work-for-an-ai-overlord-this-website-lets-machine-rent-humans-all-you-need-to-know-about-rentahuman-ai-1770455263542">'Robots need your body': Are you up to 'rent' yourself to Artificial Intelligence? Deets inside</a>The Pentagon’s latest competition, which is set to last six months, focuses on voice-controlled swarms. The goal is to build systems that can translate voice commands from military personnel into digital instructions that guide multiple drones.<h2>SpaceX and xAI enter the contest</h2>According to a Bloomberg report, citing people familiar with the effort, SpaceX and xAI are among a small group of companies selected for the Pentagon's $100 million prize competition. OpenAI is also a contender in the competition launched in January by the Defense Innovation Unit and the Defense Autonomous Warfare Group. The six-month contest will unfold in phases, beginning with software development and eventually moving to real-world testing.SpaceX has long worked as a defence contractor with the US military on rockets, satellite launches, and communications systems. However, building software for offensive drone operations would mark a new direction for the company.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-jesus-watches-over-her-whoops-disturbing-epstein-files-email-mocking-young-victim-s-faith-goes-viral-1771055911141">'Jesus watches over her… whoops': Disturbing Epstein files email mocking young victim’s faith goes viral</a><h2>Ethical and strategic concerns</h2>The project highlights the Pentagon’s push to integrate AI into warfare. A new defence strategy, 'AI Acceleration Strategy', released earlier this year, seeks to "unleash" AI into the battlefields, expanding the use of autonomous systems in planning, surveillance, and potential participation in operations involving lethal strikes.At the same time, AI-driven weapons raise serious questions. Large language models are known to be prone to bias, and Musk himself previously signed an open letter warning against "new tools for killing people". &nbsp;

Elon Musk’s SpaceX and xAI are now competing to build AI-powered drone swarms for the Pentagon, where multiple drones act like one coordinated “intelligent” weapon system. What does that mean? Scroll down to learn how it works.

Elon Musk's SpaceX, as per reports, is stepping into a new and controversial area of defence technology by joining a Pentagon competition to develop autonomous drone swarming systems powered by artificial intelligence. The project will also involve Musk's AI company xAI. Here’s what the technology is, and why the Pentagon wants it. What is autonomous drone swarming? Drone swarming technology allows multiple, networked unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones to operate as a single intelligence unit rather than as individual machines. Instead of a human pilot controlling each device separately, software enables the drones to communicate with one another, adjust their movements in real time, and complete missions together. Also read | 'Robots need your body': Are you up to 'rent' yourself to Artificial Intelligence? Deets inside The Pentagon’s latest competition, which is set to last six months, focuses on voice-controlled swarms. The goal is to build systems that can translate voice commands from military personnel into digital instructions that guide multiple drones. SpaceX and xAI enter the contest According to a Bloomberg report, citing people familiar with the effort, SpaceX and xAI are among a small group of companies selected for the Pentagon's $100 million prize competition. OpenAI is also a contender in the competition launched in January by the Defense Innovation Unit and the Defense Autonomous Warfare Group. The six-month contest will unfold in phases, beginning with software development and eventually moving to real-world testing. SpaceX has long worked as a defence contractor with the US military on rockets, satellite launches, and communications systems. However, building software for offensive drone operations would mark a new direction for the company. Also read | 'Jesus watches over her… whoops': Disturbing Epstein files email mocking young victim’s faith goes viral Ethical and strategic concerns The project highlights the Pentagon’s push to integrate AI into warfare. A new defence strategy, 'AI Acceleration Strategy', released earlier this year, seeks to "unleash" AI into the battlefields, expanding the use of autonomous systems in planning, surveillance, and potential participation in operations involving lethal strikes. At the same time, AI-driven weapons raise serious questions. Large language models are known to be prone to bias, and Musk himself previously signed an open letter warning against "new tools for killing people".

Elon Musk’s SpaceX and xAI are now competing to build AI-powered drone swarms for the Pentagon, where multiple drones act like one coordinated “intelligent” weapon system. What does that mean? Scroll down to learn how it works.

What is autonomous drone swarming tech? Musk's SpaceX, xAI bid in secret Pentagon competition | WION Explains

Four new astronauts have arrived at the International Space Station aboard a SpaceX rocket as part of the Crew-12 mission. The international team will take over operations after a previous crew returned early due to health concerns.

The successful docking marks another milestone in NASA and SpaceX’s ongoing commercial space partnership.

SpaceX Crew-12 Docks At International Space Station: Four New Astronauts Arrive Via SpaceX Rocket

In a major milestone for space exploration, NASA and SpaceX successfully launched the Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday (Feb 13). A Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, carrying four astronauts aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft Resilience.&nbsp;The spacecraft is scheduled to dock with the ISS on Saturday, February 14, at 3:15 PM EST (1:45 AM IST on Sunday), following a 34-hour journey. This arrival coincides perfectly with Valentine’s Day.&nbsp;A primary goal of the mission is to reinforce the ISS following the early return of the Crew-11 mission in January due to a health emergency. The arrival of Crew-12 will restore the station to its full seven-person complement as they join the Expedition 74 members already aboard.This launch also achieved a technical milestone: it was the first time SpaceX successfully launched and landed a crew-capable Falcon 9 booster at the same facility, Space Launch Complex 40, further demonstrating the rapid reusability and reliability of commercial spaceflight.<h2>The multinational crew</h2>The mission features a diverse team representing three different space agencies:&nbsp;Jessica Meir (NASA): Mission Commander. On her second trip to space, she previously made history by performing the first all-woman spacewalk.&nbsp;Jack Hathaway (NASA): Pilot. A US Navy Commander making his first spaceflight.&nbsp;Sophie Adenot (ESA): Mission Specialist. A French engineer and the first from her 2022 ESA astronaut class to fly; her portion of the mission is named "Epsilon."&nbsp;Andrey Fedyaev (Roscosmos): Mission Specialist. A Russian cosmonaut on his second long-duration mission.&nbsp;Scheduled for an eight-month stay, the crew will conduct over 200 experiments. Key research includes the "Venous Flow" study to understand blood clot risks in microgravity, investigating how pneumonia-causing bacteria affect heart tissue, testing on-demand IV fluid generation, and studying nitrogen-fixing microbes to improve sustainable food production for future Mars missions.

A primary goal of the mission is to reinforce the ISS following the early return of the Crew-11 mission in January due to a health emergency. The arrival of Crew-12 will restore the station to its full seven-person complement as they join the Expedition 74 members already aboard.

In a major milestone for space exploration, NASA and SpaceX successfully launched the Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday (Feb 13). A Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, carrying four astronauts aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft Resilience. The spacecraft is scheduled to dock with the ISS on Saturday, February 14, at 3:15 PM EST (1:45 AM IST on Sunday), following a 34-hour journey. This arrival coincides perfectly with Valentine’s Day. A primary goal of the mission is to reinforce the ISS following the early return of the Crew-11 mission in January due to a health emergency. The arrival of Crew-12 will restore the station to its full seven-person complement as they join the Expedition 74 members already aboard. This launch also achieved a technical milestone: it was the first time SpaceX successfully launched and landed a crew-capable Falcon 9 booster at the same facility, Space Launch Complex 40, further demonstrating the rapid reusability and reliability of commercial spaceflight. The multinational crew The mission features a diverse team representing three different space agencies: Jessica Meir (NASA): Mission Commander. On her second trip to space, she previously made history by performing the first all-woman spacewalk. Jack Hathaway (NASA): Pilot. A US Navy Commander making his first spaceflight. Sophie Adenot (ESA): Mission Specialist. A French engineer and the first from her 2022 ESA astronaut class to fly; her portion of the mission is named "Epsilon." Andrey Fedyaev (Roscosmos): Mission Specialist. A Russian cosmonaut on his second long-duration mission. Scheduled for an eight-month stay, the crew will conduct over 200 experiments. Key research includes the "Venous Flow" study to understand blood clot risks in microgravity, investigating how pneumonia-causing bacteria affect heart tissue, testing on-demand IV fluid generation, and studying nitrogen-fixing microbes to improve sustainable food production for future Mars missions.

A primary goal of the mission is to reinforce the ISS following the early return of the Crew-11 mission in January due to a health emergency. The arrival of Crew-12 will restore the station to its full seven-person complement as they join the Expedition 74 members already aboard.

SpaceX lifts off with four astronauts for Valentine’s Day International Space Station docking

NASA is preparing to send four astronauts to the International Space Station under its SpaceX Crew-12 mission, marking the 12th crew rotation flight under the Commercial Crew Programme. The mission will carry astronauts from the United States, Europe and Russia for an eight-month stay in orbit, focused on science, technology tests and station maintenance.The crew will travel aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft named Freedom, launched on a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida.&nbsp;<h2>SpaceX Crew-12 mission</h2>Crew-12 is a long-duration mission to the International Space Station. The astronauts will join Expedition 74, living and working in space for around eight months.The mission will focus on research that supports future Moon and Mars missions and delivers benefits on Earth. This includes experiments on human health, plant growth, and new space technologies.The Dragon spacecraft used for Crew-12 has already flown multiple missions, including earlier NASA crew flights and private astronaut missions.&nbsp;<h2>Astronauts on Crew-12</h2>The mission brings together four crew members from different space agencies.NASA astronaut&nbsp;Jessica Meir is the mission commander. This will be her second spaceflight. She previously spent more than 200 days aboard the space station and took part in the first all-women spacewalks.NASA astronaut&nbsp;Jack Hathaway will serve as pilot. Crew-12 will be his first space mission. Hathaway is a US Navy commander with more than 2,500 flight hours.Joining them are&nbsp;Sophie Adenot from the European Space Agency and&nbsp;Andrey Fedyaev from Roscosmos, both serving as mission specialists. For Adenot, this will be her first spaceflight, while Fedyaev has already completed one long-duration mission aboard the ISS.&nbsp;<h2>What science Crew-12 will carry out in space</h2>During their stay, the astronauts will run a wide range of experiments. According to NASA, these include studies on pneumonia-causing bacteria to improve treatments, research on blood flow in microgravity, and tests to produce intravenous fluids on demand in space.The crew will also work on automated plant health monitoring and experiments involving plants and nitrogen-fixing microbes. These studies aim to improve food production for future deep-space missions.In addition, Crew-12 will help maintain the space station, support visiting cargo spacecraft and assist with crew handovers.&nbsp;<h2>How the launch and docking will happen</h2>After liftoff, the Falcon 9 rocket will push Dragon to speeds of about 17,500 miles per hour. The spacecraft will then perform a series of automated manoeuvres to dock with the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module.Although Dragon is designed to dock on its own, the crew can take manual control if needed. Once docked, the astronauts will be welcomed by the Expedition 74 crew already on board.&nbsp;<h2>Why Crew-12 matters for NASA’s future plans</h2>NASA says the International Space Station remains a key testbed for long-duration human spaceflight. Lessons from missions like Crew-12 help the agency prepare for the Artemis programme, which aims to return humans to the Moon and later send astronauts to Mars.As commercial companies handle routine trips to low Earth orbit, NASA is focusing more on deep-space exploration. Crew-12 is part of that transition, combining international cooperation, commercial spacecraft and long-term science in space.

NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 will send four astronauts to the International Space Station for an eight-month mission focused on science, station upkeep and preparing for Moon and Mars missions.

NASA is preparing to send four astronauts to the International Space Station under its SpaceX Crew-12 mission, marking the 12th crew rotation flight under the Commercial Crew Programme. The mission will carry astronauts from the United States, Europe and Russia for an eight-month stay in orbit, focused on science, technology tests and station maintenance. The crew will travel aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft named Freedom, launched on a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida. SpaceX Crew-12 mission Crew-12 is a long-duration mission to the International Space Station. The astronauts will join Expedition 74, living and working in space for around eight months. The mission will focus on research that supports future Moon and Mars missions and delivers benefits on Earth. This includes experiments on human health, plant growth, and new space technologies. The Dragon spacecraft used for Crew-12 has already flown multiple missions, including earlier NASA crew flights and private astronaut missions. Astronauts on Crew-12 The mission brings together four crew members from different space agencies. NASA astronaut Jessica Meir is the mission commander. This will be her second spaceflight. She previously spent more than 200 days aboard the space station and took part in the first all-women spacewalks. NASA astronaut Jack Hathaway will serve as pilot. Crew-12 will be his first space mission. Hathaway is a US Navy commander with more than 2,500 flight hours. Joining them are Sophie Adenot from the European Space Agency and Andrey Fedyaev from Roscosmos, both serving as mission specialists. For Adenot, this will be her first spaceflight, while Fedyaev has already completed one long-duration mission aboard the ISS. What science Crew-12 will carry out in space During their stay, the astronauts will run a wide range of experiments. According to NASA, these include studies on pneumonia-causing bacteria to improve treatments, research on blood flow in microgravity, and tests to produce intravenous fluids on demand in space. The crew will also work on automated plant health monitoring and experiments involving plants and nitrogen-fixing microbes. These studies aim to improve food production for future deep-space missions. In addition, Crew-12 will help maintain the space station, support visiting cargo spacecraft and assist with crew handovers. How the launch and docking will happen After liftoff, the Falcon 9 rocket will push Dragon to speeds of about 17,500 miles per hour. The spacecraft will then perform a series of automated manoeuvres to dock with the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module. Although Dragon is designed to dock on its own, the crew can take manual control if needed. Once docked, the astronauts will be welcomed by the Expedition 74 crew already on board. Why Crew-12 matters for NASA’s future plans NASA says the International Space Station remains a key testbed for long-duration human spaceflight. Lessons from missions like Crew-12 help the agency prepare for the Artemis programme, which aims to return humans to the Moon and later send astronauts to Mars. As commercial companies handle routine trips to low Earth orbit, NASA is focusing more on deep-space exploration. Crew-12 is part of that transition, combining international cooperation, commercial spacecraft and long-term science in space.

NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 will send four astronauts to the International Space Station for an eight-month mission focused on science, station upkeep and preparing for Moon and Mars missions.

What is NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 mission: Everything you should know

Listen, just a few months back, Elon Musk was completely obsessed with Mars. The billionaire founder of SpaceX kept saying that Mars is humanity's future home, and he was dead serious about it. He even called our Moon a "distraction", can you imagine that? But something interesting happened recently. Out of nowhere, Elon made a shocking announcement on his social media X platform that SpaceX is now prioritizing Moon settlement before going to Mars. Now I want to share with you exactly why this dramatic shift is happening, and honestly, it makes a lot of sense when you really think about it.&nbsp;Here is the real thing: Elon never actually hated the Moon. The plan was always there somewhere in the background. But what changed is the timeline and the practical thinking. Let me explain this simply. Getting to Mars is like planning a wedding that takes 20 years to prepare. The problem is that Earth and Mars only align perfectly once every 26 months, and the journey itself takes six months. So the waiting period becomes super long. But the Moon? No, it is totally different. We can launch missions every 10 days, and reaching there takes only two days. This is like the difference between a local shop and a faraway mall, understand?&nbsp;The magic word here is "testing." Elon realized something very important: if SpaceX wants to perfect the technology of space settlement, they need to do it faster. With the Moon, they can launch missions repeatedly, make mistakes, learn from them, and improve everything in just months. With Mars, it could take decades to figure out what went wrong because you need to wait for the next launch window. This is actually very smart thinking. It is like learning to drive by practicing on empty roads first instead of jumping straight into highway traffic.&nbsp;Now here is the interesting part about resources. The Moon is sitting there with massive treasure locked inside. We are talking about water ice frozen in deep craters, rare earth minerals, metals like iron and titanium, and something called helium-3 that is worth billions. Recently, a company agreed to buy helium-3 from the Moon for around 300 million dollars per year. This is not some fantasy story; this is real business happening right now. The Moon has become a genuine economic opportunity, not just an adventure destination.&nbsp;Let me tell you about this electromagnetic mass driver thing that Elon is talking about. Basically, imagine a giant magnetic launcher on the Moon, like a cosmic catapult that uses magnetic force instead of rocket fuel. Because the Moon has weak gravity and no thick atmosphere, you can launch heavy objects into space much more easily from there. So the idea is to build factories on the Moon, use Moon materials to manufacture satellites, and then shoot them into deep space using this magnetic launcher. This way, you do not have to waste money bringing everything from Earth. It is like setting up a shop in the middle of a market instead of shipping products from far away.&nbsp;Here is something mind-blowing that Elon mentioned. If this Moon-based manufacturing works perfectly, humanity could send AI-powered satellites into space with the power capacity of 500 to 1000 terawatts every year. Now, think about what that means. There is something called the Kardashev scale that measures how advanced a civilization is based on how much energy it can control. Right now, humanity has not even reached level one on this scale. But with Moon manufacturing, we could be moving toward something that would make us genuinely advanced as a civilization. We could start using meaningful portions of the Sun's own energy. That is massive.&nbsp;But wait, there is another reason Elon is nervous about Mars right now. He recently said something that shows real concern: What if there is a natural disaster or a war that stops supply ships from Earth? If a Mars colony is completely dependent on Earth for supplies, and those supplies stop coming, everyone there dies. But a Moon colony could be self-growing and independent much faster because we can send rescue missions or supplies every 10 days if needed. This is not just about ambition anymore; this is about survival and making sure humanity does not put all its eggs in one basket. Look, Elon has not canceled Mars. He is saying that work on Mars will start in 5 or 6 years, and he is even predicting a crewed Mars mission by 2031. But the Moon comes first. It is the stepping stone, the practice ground, the economic foundation.&nbsp;The truth is that this shift from Mars to the Moon is actually the most practical decision Elon has made in a long time. It is faster, safer, more affordable, and it opens up real business opportunities. The Moon is not a distraction anymore; it is the smartest first step toward making humanity truly spacefaring. And honestly, that is genius-level planning.

Elon never actually hated the Moon. The plan was always there somewhere in the background. But what changed is the timeline and the practical thinking

Listen, just a few months back, Elon Musk was completely obsessed with Mars. The billionaire founder of SpaceX kept saying that Mars is humanity's future home, and he was dead serious about it. He even called our Moon a "distraction", can you imagine that? But something interesting happened recently. Out of nowhere, Elon made a shocking announcement on his social media X platform that SpaceX is now prioritizing Moon settlement before going to Mars. Now I want to share with you exactly why this dramatic shift is happening, and honestly, it makes a lot of sense when you really think about it. Here is the real thing: Elon never actually hated the Moon. The plan was always there somewhere in the background. But what changed is the timeline and the practical thinking. Let me explain this simply. Getting to Mars is like planning a wedding that takes 20 years to prepare. The problem is that Earth and Mars only align perfectly once every 26 months, and the journey itself takes six months. So the waiting period becomes super long. But the Moon? No, it is totally different. We can launch missions every 10 days, and reaching there takes only two days. This is like the difference between a local shop and a faraway mall, understand? The magic word here is "testing." Elon realized something very important: if SpaceX wants to perfect the technology of space settlement, they need to do it faster. With the Moon, they can launch missions repeatedly, make mistakes, learn from them, and improve everything in just months. With Mars, it could take decades to figure out what went wrong because you need to wait for the next launch window. This is actually very smart thinking. It is like learning to drive by practicing on empty roads first instead of jumping straight into highway traffic. Now here is the interesting part about resources. The Moon is sitting there with massive treasure locked inside. We are talking about water ice frozen in deep craters, rare earth minerals, metals like iron and titanium, and something called helium-3 that is worth billions. Recently, a company agreed to buy helium-3 from the Moon for around 300 million dollars per year. This is not some fantasy story; this is real business happening right now. The Moon has become a genuine economic opportunity, not just an adventure destination. Let me tell you about this electromagnetic mass driver thing that Elon is talking about. Basically, imagine a giant magnetic launcher on the Moon, like a cosmic catapult that uses magnetic force instead of rocket fuel. Because the Moon has weak gravity and no thick atmosphere, you can launch heavy objects into space much more easily from there. So the idea is to build factories on the Moon, use Moon materials to manufacture satellites, and then shoot them into deep space using this magnetic launcher. This way, you do not have to waste money bringing everything from Earth. It is like setting up a shop in the middle of a market instead of shipping products from far away. Here is something mind-blowing that Elon mentioned. If this Moon-based manufacturing works perfectly, humanity could send AI-powered satellites into space with the power capacity of 500 to 1000 terawatts every year. Now, think about what that means. There is something called the Kardashev scale that measures how advanced a civilization is based on how much energy it can control. Right now, humanity has not even reached level one on this scale. But with Moon manufacturing, we could be moving toward something that would make us genuinely advanced as a civilization. We could start using meaningful portions of the Sun's own energy. That is massive. But wait, there is another reason Elon is nervous about Mars right now. He recently said something that shows real concern: What if there is a natural disaster or a war that stops supply ships from Earth? If a Mars colony is completely dependent on Earth for supplies, and those supplies stop coming, everyone there dies. But a Moon colony could be self-growing and independent much faster because we can send rescue missions or supplies every 10 days if needed. This is not just about ambition anymore; this is about survival and making sure humanity does not put all its eggs in one basket. Look, Elon has not canceled Mars. He is saying that work on Mars will start in 5 or 6 years, and he is even predicting a crewed Mars mission by 2031. But the Moon comes first. It is the stepping stone, the practice ground, the economic foundation. The truth is that this shift from Mars to the Moon is actually the most practical decision Elon has made in a long time. It is faster, safer, more affordable, and it opens up real business opportunities. The Moon is not a distraction anymore; it is the smartest first step toward making humanity truly spacefaring. And honestly, that is genius-level planning.

Elon never actually hated the Moon. The plan was always there somewhere in the background. But what changed is the timeline and the practical thinking

Not a distraction: How the Moon became Musk's most practical bet

Elon Musk has taken another major step to unify his sprawling empire of companies. SpaceX, the rocket and satellite firm, is merging with xAI, the artificial intelligence startup founded by Musk. In a deal that could reshape both the space and AI industries.


Elon Musk Merges SpaceX With xAI

SpaceX has halted Russia’s unauthorised use of its Starlink satellite network in Ukraine, preventing Moscow from accessing critical communications technology, experts say this move highlights the growing role of private tech companies in modern warfare and geopolitics, analysts discuss the strategic implications for Ukraine’s defense, international relations, and Russia’s military operations.

SpaceX Stops Russia’s Unauthorised Use of Starlink in Ukraine

Three companies led by Elon Musk SpaceX, Tesla and artificial intelligence firm xAI are reportedly exploring a possible merger, according to reports by Bloomberg and Reuters. The discussions are said to be at an early stage, but they point to Musk’s growing effort to bring his businesses closer together.Sources cited by the reports say the talks could lead to one or more of the companies being folded into SpaceX, especially as the rocket maker prepares for a possible public listing later this year.<h2>Two merger options under discussion</h2>According to Bloomberg, one scenario being considered involves a merger between SpaceX and Tesla. Another option, reported by Reuters, suggests SpaceX could merge with xAI, the company behind the Grok chatbot and owner of social media platform X.Reuters added that a SpaceX-xAI merger could happen before SpaceX’s planned initial public offering. Such a move would place SpaceX rockets, Starlink satellites, X, and Grok under a single corporate structure.Neither SpaceX nor xAI has commented publicly on the reports.<h2>New filings hint at preparation</h2>While the companies have not confirmed the talks, recent regulatory filings have raised questions. Two new entities - K2 Merger Sub Inc. and K2 Merger Sub 2 LLC - were registered in Nevada on January 21. According to corporate records, such entities are often created to support merger activity.These filings suggest that Musk may be keeping multiple options open as he looks at restructuring his business empire.<h2>Why a merger could make sense</h2>Analysts say a SpaceX and xAI combination could support Musk’s stated interest in placing data centres in space using Starlink and SpaceX infrastructure. A SpaceX-Tesla merger could also connect Tesla’s energy storage business with future space-based computing projects.The idea of closer integration is not new. According to The Wall Street Journal, SpaceX invested $2 billion in xAI last year. Tesla also disclosed this week that it has invested $2 billion in the AI firm.In 2024, xAI acquired X in a deal that Musk said valued xAI at $80 billion and X at $33 billion. SpaceX, founded in 2002, was valued at around $800 billion in a recent secondary share sale, making it the most valuable private company in the United States, according to reports.Musk is considering taking SpaceX publicA report by the Financial Times said Musk is considering taking SpaceX public as early as June. However, timelines around Musk-led projects have often shifted in the past.For now, the merger discussions remain unconfirmed. But if they move forward, the deal could reshape how Musk’s companies operate - bringing rockets, electric cars, satellites, social media and AI under a single strategic vision.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX, Tesla and xAI are reportedly in early talks over a possible merger, according to Reuters. Options include folding Tesla or xAI into SpaceX ahead of a potential IPO, bringing rockets, AI and social media under one structure.

Three companies led by Elon Musk SpaceX, Tesla and artificial intelligence firm xAI are reportedly exploring a possible merger, according to reports by Bloomberg and Reuters. The discussions are said to be at an early stage, but they point to Musk’s growing effort to bring his businesses closer together. Sources cited by the reports say the talks could lead to one or more of the companies being folded into SpaceX, especially as the rocket maker prepares for a possible public listing later this year. Two merger options under discussion According to Bloomberg, one scenario being considered involves a merger between SpaceX and Tesla. Another option, reported by Reuters, suggests SpaceX could merge with xAI, the company behind the Grok chatbot and owner of social media platform X. Reuters added that a SpaceX-xAI merger could happen before SpaceX’s planned initial public offering. Such a move would place SpaceX rockets, Starlink satellites, X, and Grok under a single corporate structure. Neither SpaceX nor xAI has commented publicly on the reports. New filings hint at preparation While the companies have not confirmed the talks, recent regulatory filings have raised questions. Two new entities - K2 Merger Sub Inc. and K2 Merger Sub 2 LLC - were registered in Nevada on January 21. According to corporate records, such entities are often created to support merger activity. These filings suggest that Musk may be keeping multiple options open as he looks at restructuring his business empire. Why a merger could make sense Analysts say a SpaceX and xAI combination could support Musk’s stated interest in placing data centres in space using Starlink and SpaceX infrastructure. A SpaceX-Tesla merger could also connect Tesla’s energy storage business with future space-based computing projects. The idea of closer integration is not new. According to The Wall Street Journal, SpaceX invested $2 billion in xAI last year. Tesla also disclosed this week that it has invested $2 billion in the AI firm. In 2024, xAI acquired X in a deal that Musk said valued xAI at $80 billion and X at $33 billion. SpaceX, founded in 2002, was valued at around $800 billion in a recent secondary share sale, making it the most valuable private company in the United States, according to reports. Musk is considering taking SpaceX public A report by the Financial Times said Musk is considering taking SpaceX public as early as June. However, timelines around Musk-led projects have often shifted in the past. For now, the merger discussions remain unconfirmed. But if they move forward, the deal could reshape how Musk’s companies operate - bringing rockets, electric cars, satellites, social media and AI under a single strategic vision.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX, Tesla and xAI are reportedly in early talks over a possible merger, according to Reuters. Options include folding Tesla or xAI into SpaceX ahead of a potential IPO, bringing rockets, AI and social media under one structure.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX, Tesla and xAI may merge: What we know so far

Space agency NASA said on Wednesday that a crew of four astronauts aboard the international space station (ISS) will return earlier than expected owing to a medical emergency in a SpaceX spacecraft.

SpaceX to Carry Out Nasa’s First-Ever Medical Evacuation From ISS

US businessman Elon Musk and SpaceX have activated Starlink satellite internet in Iran amid a nationwide blackout imposed by the regime during ongoing anti-government protests as of January 9, 2026, according to online reports.

Iranians Using Starlink to Defy Internet Curbs  Risking Death Penalty & Imprisonment

ISRO’s LVM3 rocket is set to attempt its heaviest launch ever, carrying the 6,100 kg BlueBird satellite built by US-based AST SpaceMobile. The mission aims to deliver space-based cellular broadband that can connect directly to smartphones, without ground towers.

This landmark launch positions ISRO at the center of a fast-growing, multi-billion-dollar space communications race dominated by players like SpaceX. With massive commercial and strategic stakes, the mission marks a defining moment for India’s rise as a trusted global launch partner and a major force in next-generation satellite technology.

American Satellite Trusts Indian Rocket for ISRO’s Most Powerful Mission Yet 

Tesla CEO Elon Musk's net worth soared to 749 billion dollars after a major legal victory. A U.S. high court restored a controversial pay deal first agreed back in 2018. The Delaware Supreme Court ruled Friday that the pay deal must be restored, overturning a lower court decision that had scrapped it two years ago. Elon Musk has now become the first person in history to be worth more than 700 billion dollars.

Elon Musk's Net Worth Tops $700 Billion

A major legal victory for Tesla CEO Elon Musk. A U.S. high court has restored a controversial pay deal first agreed back in 2018. The Delaware Supreme Court ruled Friday that the pay deal must be restored, overturning a lower court decision that had scrapped it two years ago.

Elon Musk’s 2018 Pay Deal Originally Worth $56 Billion Restored

Rocket Lab's partially reusable rocket Neutron has completed final qualification tests. With this, the company is gearing up to compete with SpaceX's Falcon 9. It is its newest launch vehicle, which is expected to fly for the first time early next year. With Neutron, the company has taken a new approach to launch vehicle reusability, with its fairing opening and closing like a clamshell, releasing the vehicle's entire second stage and payload. It is a Hungry-Hippo-style fairing, acting exactly like the popular board game. Rocket Lab's workhorse Electron rocket has already gained a hold in the small launch market. SpaceX has its own recovery and refurbishment plans with Falcon, with its booster stage carrying the second stage and payload to a point where the second stage accelerates the payload to its target orbit. The booster lands back vertically for reuse, while the fairing halves fall independently of each other and the first stage into the ocean.<h2>Neutron can stand up to SpaceX's Falcon 9</h2>Rocket Lab's Neutron, on the other hand, has a first stage that opens up and releases the vehicle's entire second stage and payload. The two halves then close back together and fall, and can be reused. With a smaller payload and lower cost, but similar reusability, Neutron can outrival SpaceX's Falcon 9. Now that the qualification tests are done, the fairing section has been sent to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport in Virginia, where it will be added to the rocket.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/3i-atlas-latest-update-methanol-hydrogen-cyanide-nucleus-coma-1765510271069">3I/ATLAS is chemically unusual, with methanol raging not just in the nucleus</a> &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hungry Hippo is on the move 🦛 With qualification and acceptance testing complete, Neutron&#39;s fixed reusable fairing and upper module is on its way to LC-3. <a href="https://t.co/SlRwCjMYkP">pic.twitter.com/SlRwCjMYkP</a>&mdash; Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) <a href="https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1998205332368298127?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Rocket Lab calls Neutron "the world’s largest carbon composite launch vehicle", adding that it underwent extensive tests. To be able to pass the tests, it had to withstand external forces as extreme as 275,000 pounds, and a rapid cycling of its open and close functions to check the durability of its motors. After it is attached to the first stage, Rocket Lab will perform a series of prelaunch tests, such as a static hotfire of the nine Archimedes engines. "A rocket like Neutron has never been built before, and we're doing it at a pace and price point that's going to bring the innovation and competition needed in today's industry," Rocket Lab Neutron VP Shaun D'Mello said in a December 8 statement.

Rocket Lab has completed final qualification tests on Neutron, its partially reusable rocket that can compete with SpaceX's Falcon 9 someday. Its first stage opens like a giant jaw, releasing the second stage, after which it closes and falls back. 

Rocket Lab's partially reusable rocket Neutron has completed final qualification tests. With this, the company is gearing up to compete with SpaceX's Falcon 9. It is its newest launch vehicle, which is expected to fly for the first time early next year. With Neutron, the company has taken a new approach to launch vehicle reusability, with its fairing opening and closing like a clamshell, releasing the vehicle's entire second stage and payload. It is a Hungry-Hippo-style fairing, acting exactly like the popular board game. Rocket Lab's workhorse Electron rocket has already gained a hold in the small launch market. SpaceX has its own recovery and refurbishment plans with Falcon, with its booster stage carrying the second stage and payload to a point where the second stage accelerates the payload to its target orbit. The booster lands back vertically for reuse, while the fairing halves fall independently of each other and the first stage into the ocean. Neutron can stand up to SpaceX's Falcon 9 Rocket Lab's Neutron, on the other hand, has a first stage that opens up and releases the vehicle's entire second stage and payload. The two halves then close back together and fall, and can be reused. With a smaller payload and lower cost, but similar reusability, Neutron can outrival SpaceX's Falcon 9. Now that the qualification tests are done, the fairing section has been sent to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport in Virginia, where it will be added to the rocket. Also Read: 3I/ATLAS is chemically unusual, with methanol raging not just in the nucleus

Rocket Lab has completed final qualification tests on Neutron, its partially reusable rocket that can compete with SpaceX's Falcon 9 someday. Its first stage opens like a giant jaw, releasing the second stage, after which it closes and falls back.&nbsp;

'Hungry-Hippo' fairing for Neutron rocket passes tests to take on SpaceX's Falcon 9

A Bloomberg report has claimed that Elon Musk’s space company SpaceX could be valued at $1.5 trillion, the biggest ever in IPO history, if and when it launches on the stock market in 2026. The report on Tuesday (Dec 9), citing unnamed insiders, claimed that SpaceX is raising more than $30 billion from the IPO, which is likely to come either in the middle of or late 2026.<h2>What did the report say on the SpaceX IPO?</h2>The Bloomberg report pegged the fundraising amount significantly more than $30 billion as speculated earlier, targeting a valuation of about $1.5 trillion for the entire company. That would place SpaceX near the market value of Saudi Aramco at the time of its record 2019 listing, when the oil giant raised $29.4 billion at a $1.7 trillion valuation. The report said the IPO could shift to 2027 based on market conditions. Proceeds of the IPO would be used to develop space-based data centres, including purchasing the chips required to run them, it said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-to-offer-insider-shares-elon-musk-clarifies-amid-market-buzz-over-800b-valuation-1765090614016">SpaceX to offer insider shares? Elon Musk clarifies amid market buzz over $800B valuation</a><h2>SpaceX financials are solid</h2>The report suggested that SpaceX may generate about $15 billion in revenue in 2025, rising to between $22 billion and $24 billion in 2026, mostly its satellite-internet service Starlink. In a current secondary offering, employees are being allowed to sell around $2 billion worth of stock at a per-share price of roughly $420. That implied a valuation above the $800 billion mark for the company.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/spacex-megarocket-most-powerful-launch-vehicle-ever-loud-cheers-for-musk-1756264425620/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/spacex-megarocket-most-powerful-launch-vehicle-ever-loud-cheers-for-musk-1756264425620/embed</a>Earlier reports had valued SpaceX at about $800 billion based on insider share sales, but the new Bloomberg-led figure of $1.5 trillion applies specifically to the targeted IPO valuation. As of now, SpaceX or Musk have not confirmed or denied the Bloomberg report, and all details of the IPO in the report remain based on unnamed insiders.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/russian-cosmonaut-oleg-artemyev-kicked-off-iss-mission-for-snooping-on-spacex-tech-in-california-1764821040754">Russian cosmonaut with 560 days of space time kicked off ISS mission for taking photos of SpaceX tech: Report</a><h2>What did Musk say about SpaceX valuation?</h2>Musk has previously said that an $800 billion valuation figure from secondary share sales was “not accurate”, though he acknowledged the existence of the share-sale structure. He has not commented on the latest reported $1.5 trillion IPO valuation.Musk has said that SpaceX has been cash-flow positive for years and that employee share buybacks have occurred roughly every two years without requiring external fundraising. He has also been historically reluctant to take SpaceX public, as he prefers focusing on long-term projects like Mars colonisation rather than responding to shareholder pressures.&nbsp;The details of the SpaceX listing remain speculative, and the timeline, structure and valuation could change depending on regulatory issues and market conditions.

Elon Musk's SpaceX is planning a 2026 IPO targeting a $1.5 trillion valuation, which could be a world record, according to a Bloomberg report. The timing, valuation and structure remain unconfirmed and may shift based on market conditions. Here is what the reports are saying


A Bloomberg report has claimed that Elon Musk’s space company SpaceX could be valued at $1.5 trillion, the biggest ever in IPO history, if and when it launches on the stock market in 2026. The report on Tuesday (Dec 9), citing unnamed insiders, claimed that SpaceX is raising more than $30 billion from the IPO, which is likely to come either in the middle of or late 2026. What did the report say on the SpaceX IPO? The Bloomberg report pegged the fundraising amount significantly more than $30 billion as speculated earlier, targeting a valuation of about $1.5 trillion for the entire company. That would place SpaceX near the market value of Saudi Aramco at the time of its record 2019 listing, when the oil giant raised $29.4 billion at a $1.7 trillion valuation. The report said the IPO could shift to 2027 based on market conditions. Proceeds of the IPO would be used to develop space-based data centres, including purchasing the chips required to run them, it said. Also read: SpaceX to offer insider shares? Elon Musk clarifies amid market buzz over $800B valuation SpaceX financials are solid The report suggested that SpaceX may generate about $15 billion in revenue in 2025, rising to between $22 billion and $24 billion in 2026, mostly its satellite-internet service Starlink. In a current secondary offering, employees are being allowed to sell around $2 billion worth of stock at a per-share price of roughly $420. That implied a valuation above the $800 billion mark for the company. https://www.wionews.com/videos/spacex-megarocket-most-powerful-launch-vehicle-ever-loud-cheers-for-musk-1756264425620/embed Earlier reports had valued SpaceX at about $800 billion based on insider share sales, but the new Bloomberg-led figure of $1.5 trillion applies specifically to the targeted IPO valuation. As of now, SpaceX or Musk have not confirmed or denied the Bloomberg report, and all details of the IPO in the report remain based on unnamed insiders. Also read: Russian cosmonaut with 560 days of space time kicked off ISS mission for taking photos of SpaceX tech: Report What did Musk say about SpaceX valuation? Musk has previously said that an $800 billion valuation figure from secondary share sales was “not accurate”, though he acknowledged the existence of the share-sale structure. He has not commented on the latest reported $1.5 trillion IPO valuation. Musk has said that SpaceX has been cash-flow positive for years and that employee share buybacks have occurred roughly every two years without requiring external fundraising. He has also been historically reluctant to take SpaceX public, as he prefers focusing on long-term projects like Mars colonisation rather than responding to shareholder pressures. The details of the SpaceX listing remain speculative, and the timeline, structure and valuation could change depending on regulatory issues and market conditions.

Elon Musk's SpaceX is planning a 2026 IPO targeting a $1.5 trillion valuation, which could be a world record, according to a Bloomberg report. The timing, valuation and structure remain unconfirmed and may shift based on market conditions. Here is what the reports are saying &nbsp;

SpaceX BIGGEST LAUNCH could be on stock market: 2026 IPO to value Elon Musk’s firm at $1.5 trillion, claims report

The Founder &amp; CEO of SpaceX, Elon Musk, refuted the reports claiming that his rocket and satellite maker SpaceX is seeking a valuation of $800 billion through a share sale. In a post on X, Musk noted that SpaceX has generated positive cash flow for many years and conducts share buybacks twice annually.&nbsp;“There has been a lot of press claiming SpaceX is raising money at $800B, which is not accurate,” Elon Musk said in a post on his social media platform X. “SpaceX has been cash flow positive for many years and does periodic stock buybacks twice a year to provide liquidity for employees and investors,” he said.&nbsp;“Valuation increments are a function of progress with Starship and Starlink and securing global direct-to-cell spectrum that greatly increases our addressable market. And one other thing that is arguably most significant by far,” he added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">There has been a lot of press claiming <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceX</a> is raising money at $800B, which is not accurate. SpaceX has been cash flow positive for many years and does periodic stock buybacks twice a year to provide liquidity for employees and investors. Valuation increments are a…&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1997399963509150089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Musk's response came after the news came to light following the sources hinting to Bloomberg News that SpaceX is gearing up to offer insider shares in a deal that will value the firm at almost $800 billion. The report also indicated that the sale would enable some employees and investors to liquidate part of their stake.<h3>SpaceX to Offer Insider Shares?</h3>Earlier, on December 5, a source told Bloomberg News that SpaceX is reportedly preparing a new insider shares sale in a transaction that would value Elon Musk’s rocket and satellite maker at more than OpenAI’s record-setting $500 billion valuation. Another source indicated that the proposed share price, above $400 per share, would place SpaceX’s valuation between $750 billion and $800 billion, though final terms are still subject to change.&nbsp;The board of the company discussed the tender offer on Thursday at its Starbase hub in Texas. If finalised, it would make SpaceX once again the most valuable privately held company in the world, surpassing the past record of $500 billion that ChatGPT owner OpenAI set in October.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the valuation marks a sharp jump in the company from July, when shares were priced at $212 each during a funding round that valued the company at $400 billion. As the world’s leading rocket operator, SpaceX continues to dominate the aerospace sector with its Falcon 9 missions that regularly send satellites and astronauts to orbit.

Elon Musk's response came after the news came to light that SpaceX is gearing up to offer insider shares in a deal that will value the firm at almost $800 billion. The report also indicated that the sale would enable some employees and investors to liquidate part of their stake.

The Founder & CEO of SpaceX, Elon Musk, refuted the reports claiming that his rocket and satellite maker SpaceX is seeking a valuation of $800 billion through a share sale. In a post on X, Musk noted that SpaceX has generated positive cash flow for many years and conducts share buybacks twice annually. “There has been a lot of press claiming SpaceX is raising money at $800B, which is not accurate,” Elon Musk said in a post on his social media platform X. “SpaceX has been cash flow positive for many years and does periodic stock buybacks twice a year to provide liquidity for employees and investors,” he said. “Valuation increments are a function of progress with Starship and Starlink and securing global direct-to-cell spectrum that greatly increases our addressable market. And one other thing that is arguably most significant by far,” he added.

Elon Musk's response came after the news came to light that SpaceX is gearing up to offer insider shares in a deal that will value the firm at almost $800 billion. The report also indicated that the sale would enable some employees and investors to liquidate part of their stake.

SpaceX to offer insider shares? Elon Musk clarifies amid market buzz over $800B valuation

From SpaceX’s Super Heavy to NASA’s SLS are pushing launch power to record levels. SpaceX's Super Heavy generates 16.7 million pounds thrust, world's most powerful rocket. Saturn V delivered 7.5 million pounds during Apollo missions. SLS produces 8.8 million pounds thrust. 


From SpaceX’s Super Heavy to NASA’s SLS are pushing launch power to record levels. SpaceX's Super Heavy generates 16.7 million pounds thrust, world's most powerful rocket. Saturn V delivered 7.5 million pounds during Apollo missions. SLS produces 8.8 million pounds thrust.&nbsp;

‘Ranked by thrust’: Top 10 most powerful rockets ever built

Oleg Artemyev, a Russian cosmonaut scheduled to fly to the International Space Station in February 2026, has been replaced by Andrei Fedyayev. This was reportedly done after Oleg was found violating US national security regulations, "photographing SpaceX documentation" and then exporting the "classified information" using his phone. While Roscosmos said in a statement that Oleg was switched out because he was transferred to another job, according to Russian investigative site The Insider, this is not the real reason. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/russia-left-without-crew-launch-pad-for-first-time-in-nearly-70-years-after-damage-at-baikonur-1764645682574">Roscosmos </a>officials said on December 2 in a statement that "the decision was made in connection with Oleg Artemyev’s transfer to another job." He was part of SpaceX's Crew 12, a four-person mission to the ISS.&nbsp;The Insider reported that the 54-year-old was removed for violations of ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations). The law seeks to safeguard national security by restricting the dissemination of sensitive information and technology. "The cosmonaut allegedly photographed SpaceX documentation and then 'used his phone' to export classified information," The Insider wrote in Russian, citing Gregory Trishkin, a launch analyst.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baikonur-accident-russia-iss-what-roscosmos-said-1764753546989">After Baikonur accident, could Russia choose to abandon the ISS? Here's what it said in the past</a> &nbsp;<h2>A Telegram channel and a launch analyst cited the same reason for Russian cosmonaut's removal</h2>Trishkin told the publication, "My contacts confirm that a violation occurred and an interdepartmental investigation has been launched." He added that removing someone two and a half months before a mission without giving a proper reason is an "indirect sign." "It's very difficult to imagine a situation in which an experienced cosmonaut could inadvertently commit such a gross violation," he added. A Russian spaceflight channel on Telegram called "Yura, Forgive Me!" also reported the matter on December 1, stating that Artemyev committed the transgression last week when he was training at SpaceX's headquarters in Hawthorne, California. He is alleged to have taken photos of SpaceX engines and other sensitive tech with his phone.&nbsp;Artemyev has been to the ISS three times, spending several months at the space laboratory each time. He has recorded a total of 560 days in space after taking the trips in March 2014, March 2018 and March 2022.

A Russian cosmonaut has allegedly been removed from SpaceXs Crew 12 flight to the ISS after he was found taking pictures of SpaceX engines and other sensitive technology. Meanwhile, Roscosmos has presented a different version and reason for the decision. 

Oleg Artemyev, a Russian cosmonaut scheduled to fly to the International Space Station in February 2026, has been replaced by Andrei Fedyayev. This was reportedly done after Oleg was found violating US national security regulations, "photographing SpaceX documentation" and then exporting the "classified information" using his phone. While Roscosmos said in a statement that Oleg was switched out because he was transferred to another job, according to Russian investigative site The Insider, this is not the real reason. Roscosmos officials said on December 2 in a statement that "the decision was made in connection with Oleg Artemyev’s transfer to another job." He was part of SpaceX's Crew 12, a four-person mission to the ISS. The Insider reported that the 54-year-old was removed for violations of ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations). The law seeks to safeguard national security by restricting the dissemination of sensitive information and technology. "The cosmonaut allegedly photographed SpaceX documentation and then 'used his phone' to export classified information," The Insider wrote in Russian, citing Gregory Trishkin, a launch analyst. Also Read: After Baikonur accident, could Russia choose to abandon the ISS? Here's what it said in the past A Telegram channel and a launch analyst cited the same reason for Russian cosmonaut's removal Trishkin told the publication, "My contacts confirm that a violation occurred and an interdepartmental investigation has been launched." He added that removing someone two and a half months before a mission without giving a proper reason is an "indirect sign." "It's very difficult to imagine a situation in which an experienced cosmonaut could inadvertently commit such a gross violation," he added. A Russian spaceflight channel on Telegram called "Yura, Forgive Me!" also reported the matter on December 1, stating that Artemyev committed the transgression last week when he was training at SpaceX's headquarters in Hawthorne, California. He is alleged to have taken photos of SpaceX engines and other sensitive tech with his phone. Artemyev has been to the ISS three times, spending several months at the space laboratory each time. He has recorded a total of 560 days in space after taking the trips in March 2014, March 2018 and March 2022.

A Russian cosmonaut has allegedly been removed from SpaceX's Crew 12 flight to the ISS after he was found taking pictures of SpaceX engines and other sensitive technology. Meanwhile, Roscosmos has presented a different version and reason for the decision.&nbsp;

Russian cosmonaut with 560 days of space time kicked off ISS mission for taking photos of SpaceX tech: Report

The ISS will retire around 2030, with SpaceX leading its safe deorbit mission. NASA and private firms plan new space stations and missions, while SpaceX’s Starship aims for Moon and Mars exploration, marking a new era in space travel and commercial space stations.

The ISS will retire around 2030, with SpaceX leading its safe deorbit mission. NASA and private firms plan new space stations and missions, while SpaceX’s Starship aims for Moon and Mars exploration, marking a new era in space travel and commercial space stations.

What role will SpaceX play after the ISS retires?

On September 6, 2025, astrophotographer Andrew McCarthy captured an unprecedented image of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket transiting the Sun’s chromosphere. Taken from a Florida wildlife refuge eight miles west of Cape Canaveral, the photograph shows the rocket’s silhouette cutting through the Sun’s turbulent plasma in hydrogen-alpha light. This is believed to be the first image of its kind, revealing intricate details of the chromosphere, the dynamic, superheated layer just above the Sun’s surface, never before seen in such a context. Described the shot, McCarthy told PetaPixel, ‘a different perspective on space,’ blending science and art to inspire curiosity about the universe.<h2>Technical Mastery and Precise Timing</h2>Unlike traditional white-light solar images, which show a relatively flat solar disk, McCarthy’s hydrogen-alpha photograph captures fiery shockwaves in the Sun’s plasma, enhanced by light scattered and diffused through the rocket’s plume. To achieve this, McCarthy used a specially designed solar telescope and an astronomy camera, while also recording a secondary image in white light with a Canon R5 camera and solar filter. The launch in question was part of the Starlink 10-57 mission, marking the 27th flight of Booster 1069 carrying 28 satellites to low Earth orbit. McCarthy relied on careful coordination with fellow rocket photographers to calculate the precise position, timing, and angle needed to capture the rocket’s transit across the Sun.<h2>Science Meets Art in a Unique Perspective</h2>The resulting image is more than just a photograph; it is a rare intersection of science and artistry. The Falcon 9 appears as a crisp, black silhouette cutting across a vibrant, restless Sun, with the chromosphere’s molten plasma providing a dramatic, almost surreal backdrop. The hydrogen-alpha wavelength highlights the Sun’s turbulent features in a way white light cannot, making this capture a historic achievement in astrophotography and space observation. McCarthy’s photograph not only illustrates the technical prowess required for such a shot but also underscores the poetic convergence of human technology and the fiery grandeur of our nearest star, creating a visual record that may never be replicated.&nbsp;

This is believed to be the first image of its kind, revealing intricate details of the chromosphere, the dynamic, superheated layer just above the Sun’s surface, never before seen in such a context. 

On September 6, 2025, astrophotographer Andrew McCarthy captured an unprecedented image of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket transiting the Sun’s chromosphere. Taken from a Florida wildlife refuge eight miles west of Cape Canaveral, the photograph shows the rocket’s silhouette cutting through the Sun’s turbulent plasma in hydrogen-alpha light. This is believed to be the first image of its kind, revealing intricate details of the chromosphere, the dynamic, superheated layer just above the Sun’s surface, never before seen in such a context. Described the shot, McCarthy told PetaPixel, ‘a different perspective on space,’ blending science and art to inspire curiosity about the universe. Technical Mastery and Precise Timing Unlike traditional white-light solar images, which show a relatively flat solar disk, McCarthy’s hydrogen-alpha photograph captures fiery shockwaves in the Sun’s plasma, enhanced by light scattered and diffused through the rocket’s plume. To achieve this, McCarthy used a specially designed solar telescope and an astronomy camera, while also recording a secondary image in white light with a Canon R5 camera and solar filter. The launch in question was part of the Starlink 10-57 mission, marking the 27th flight of Booster 1069 carrying 28 satellites to low Earth orbit. McCarthy relied on careful coordination with fellow rocket photographers to calculate the precise position, timing, and angle needed to capture the rocket’s transit across the Sun. Science Meets Art in a Unique Perspective The resulting image is more than just a photograph; it is a rare intersection of science and artistry. The Falcon 9 appears as a crisp, black silhouette cutting across a vibrant, restless Sun, with the chromosphere’s molten plasma providing a dramatic, almost surreal backdrop. The hydrogen-alpha wavelength highlights the Sun’s turbulent features in a way white light cannot, making this capture a historic achievement in astrophotography and space observation. McCarthy’s photograph not only illustrates the technical prowess required for such a shot but also underscores the poetic convergence of human technology and the fiery grandeur of our nearest star, creating a visual record that may never be replicated.

This is believed to be the first image of its kind, revealing intricate details of the chromosphere, the dynamic, superheated layer just above the Sun’s surface, never before seen in such a context.&nbsp;

Historic! Astrophotographer captures SpaceX Falcon 9 cutting through solar chromosphere

The internet service of Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, Starlink, has been restored after it suffered a widespread service outage on Monday morning, according to tracking website Downdetector.com. Reports of Starlink disruptions in the US dropped below 1,000 by 1:15 a.m. ET (0515 GMT), down sharply from a peak of over 43,000 earlier, Downdetector said. The status of outage updates was reported from multiple sources.&nbsp;Earlier, the company website came up with a message that Starlink is experiencing a service outage. “Starlink is currently experiencing a service outage. Our team is investigating,” a message posted on the company’s website read. As per the outage tracking website Downdetector, over 43,000 users in the United States were affected by 12:35 a.m. ET.<h3>Starlink's use in remote areas and conflict zones</h3>Starlink provides internet services via a constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites, which is used in remote areas and conflict zones globally. Basically, it is operated by SpaceX of Elon Musk. This internet system is widely used in rural and remote areas that lack traditional infrastructure, and it has also played a significant role in conflict zones, causing disruption in communications networks.&nbsp;Over 40,000 users flagged internet disruptions on Downdetector, which noted the outage was largely concentrated in US cities such as Seattle, San Francisco, Phoenix, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Chicago and Washington.&nbsp;A comparable disruption had occurred in July, when Starlink issued an apology after thousands were left without service for several hours. “We understand how important connectivity is and apologise for the disruption,” the company’s official X account wrote on 24 July.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-accused-of-wage-theft-tesla-sued-for-allegedly-preferring-h-1b-visa-workers-over-americans-1757829417154">Elon Musk accused of wage theft? Tesla sued for allegedly preferring H-1B visa workers over Americans</a>

Internet disruptions of Starlink in the US dropped below 1,000 by 1:15 a.m. ET (0515 GMT), down sharply from a peak of over 43,000 earlier, Downdetector said. The status of outage updates was reported from multiple sources.

The internet service of Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, Starlink, has been restored after it suffered a widespread service outage on Monday morning, according to tracking website Downdetector.com. Reports of Starlink disruptions in the US dropped below 1,000 by 1:15 a.m. ET (0515 GMT), down sharply from a peak of over 43,000 earlier, Downdetector said. The status of outage updates was reported from multiple sources. Earlier, the company website came up with a message that Starlink is experiencing a service outage. “Starlink is currently experiencing a service outage. Our team is investigating,” a message posted on the company’s website read. As per the outage tracking website Downdetector, over 43,000 users in the United States were affected by 12:35 a.m. ET. Starlink's use in remote areas and conflict zones Starlink provides internet services via a constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites, which is used in remote areas and conflict zones globally. Basically, it is operated by SpaceX of Elon Musk. This internet system is widely used in rural and remote areas that lack traditional infrastructure, and it has also played a significant role in conflict zones, causing disruption in communications networks. Over 40,000 users flagged internet disruptions on Downdetector, which noted the outage was largely concentrated in US cities such as Seattle, San Francisco, Phoenix, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Chicago and Washington. A comparable disruption had occurred in July, when Starlink issued an apology after thousands were left without service for several hours. “We understand how important connectivity is and apologise for the disruption,” the company’s official X account wrote on 24 July. Also read: Elon Musk accused of wage theft? Tesla sued for allegedly preferring H-1B visa workers over Americans

Internet disruptions of Starlink in the US dropped below 1,000 by 1:15 a.m. ET (0515 GMT), down sharply from a peak of over 43,000 earlier, Downdetector said. The status of outage updates was reported from multiple sources.

Elon Musk's Starlink service restored after major outage hits over 43,000 users in US

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