SpaceX's giant rocket may leave NASA in the dust
SpaceX is conducting a major test of its Starship rocket, which could eventually replace the Falcon 9. This transition poses a potential logistical challenge for NASA, as the agency currently relies on the Falcon 9 to transport astronauts to the International Space Station.
Why it matters
The shift in launch technology highlights the evolving dependency of government space agencies on private sector innovation.
Later today, SpaceX is planning the most ambitious test yet of its massive new rocket Starship. If all goes well, it will lift off from a pad in South Texas, circle the Earth and then land vertically at the same pad 22 and a half hours later.
Space New space station crew launches from Florida on SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule The test would be a major milestone for a rocket that company founder Elon Musk says he hopes will one day carry astronauts to Mars. But experts say the rapid development of Starship could also end up stranding one of the company's biggest boosters over the years: NASA.
Headlinne story · 4 newsrooms
SpaceX Prepares Historic Double Catch Attempt for Massive Starship Rocket
What every outlet reported, where they differ, and how each framed it →
Also covering this story
6 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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